Georgia lawmakers, in support of Israel, pass bill that would define antisemitism in state law

By JEFF AMY
Associated Press

ATLANTA (AP) — Georgia lawmakers in a show of support for Israel have given final passage to a bill to define antisemitism in state law, sending it to the governor for his expected signature. The Senate approved the measure by a 44-6 vote Thursday with Republicans united in support of Israel in its war on Hamas. But some Senate Democrats were split over fears of suppressing support for Palestinians. The House later agreed to some changes and passed it 129-5. The bill now goes to Gov. Brian Kemp, who said he will sign it into law. The proposal seeks to adopt a definition of antisemitism that would help prosecutors identify hate crimes and illegal discrimination targeting Jewish people.