March 18, 2024
The Jewish American Affairs Committee of Indiana (JAACI) thanks Governor Eric Holcomb for supporting Israel and the Jewish community by his veto of House Enrolled Act (HEA) 1002 and through his Proclamation supporting the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism. The Governor’s carefully crafted veto message recognizes both the importance of the legislation passed by the General Assembly and the need for legislation clearly stating the essential connection between Judaism and Israel.
We appreciate Representative Jeter’s crucial leadership in authoring HB 1002 and the tremendous effort he made to see it through to passage. We also appreciate the leadership role of Speaker Todd Houston and Senator Aaron Freeman for their great efforts on behalf of HB 1002.
The purpose of the legislation is to protect Jewish students from virulent Antisemitism in our educational institutions in the guise of relentless and vicious attacks on Israel. Incorporating the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism into HB 1002 made clear the nexus between Antisemitism and the examples of anti-Israel activity prevalent in schools and university campuses. Unfortunately, a last minute change undermined the original intention of HB 1002 making the reference to IHRA uncertain by unintentionally removing any reference to Israel from the legislation.
Our request for Governor Holcomb to veto HEA 1002 was very difficult as JAACI drafted the original bill authored by Representative Jeter and worked closely with him and the sponsors of the bill to ensure passage. Attorney General Todd Rokita provided critical guidance and support for assuring that the legislation would accomplish its goal. Ultimately the bill fell short of accomplishing its intended purpose. We look forward working with all parties in furthering Hoosier support for Israel and the Jewish people.