The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Protect Economic and Academic Freedom Act on Thursday by a vote of 237-169. The measure, H.R. 4795, aims to prevent colleges and universities from receiving federal student aid if they participate in commercial boycotts of Israel promoted by the BDS movement.

Sponsored by Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) and Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-NC), the bill requires institutions to certify that they are not engaging in non-expressive commercial boycotts of Israel to remain eligible for federal funds. It defines such boycotts as commercial actions intended to limit relations with Israel or entities doing business there, unless based on valid business reasons.

The legislation also directs the Department of Education to publish a list of non-compliant institutions. For schools receiving Title VI funding for international education programs, it mandates annual certification that students and faculty have equal access to academic programs in Israel without obstruction.

The bill advanced from the House Education and Workforce Committee earlier this year with a 24-9 vote. It now moves to the Senate for consideration.

Supporters described the measure as a response to rising antisemitism on campuses, arguing that discriminatory boycotts undermine academic freedom and U.S. strategic interests. Critics, including some Democrats who voted against it, raised concerns about free speech implications.

The vote occurred along mostly party lines, with 33 Democrats joining Republicans in support. The legislation reflects ongoing congressional efforts to address campus policies related to Israel following heightened tensions in recent years.