Illinois bill seeks to repeal law restricting pension investments over Israel boycotts
Proposed legislation challenges state law that blocks public funds from companies participating in political boycotts
CHICAGO, United States (MNTV) – A new bill in Illinois is moving through committee and will soon face a key hearing.
The current law, signed by former governor Bruce Rauner, blocks state pension funds from investing in companies that boycott Israel. It also restricts state agencies from doing business with those companies.
A state board keeps a list of affected companies, which includes about 30 names.
The proposal, known as HB 2723, aims to remove a 2015 state law that limits how public funds can be used when companies take part in political boycotts. Supporters of the new bill say the law restricts free speech and unfairly targets one form of political action.
They argue that people and companies should be allowed to express their views through economic choices, including boycotts.
Public response has been strong on both sides. Thousands of people have submitted opinions ahead of the hearing, with more currently opposing the bill than supporting it.
The bill was introduced by Abdelnasser Rashid, and has backing from several political groups and community leaders. The debate reflects a broader national discussion about free speech, foreign policy, and the role of economic pressure in political issues.
Lawmakers will review public input and arguments from both sides before deciding whether the bill should move forward.
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