US Federal House Bill HB2446

US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/27/25
• Refer: 3/27/25

Caption

Stop Antisemitism on College Campuses Act

Summary

HB2446, titled the Stop Antisemitism on College Campuses Act, would amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to make participation in federal Title IV student aid programs contingent on an institution’s commitment not to authorize, facilitate, fund, or otherwise support events promoting antisemitism on campus. The bill adds a new certification requirement to the Higher Education Act’s institutional participation agreement provisions. The bill defines antisemitism by reference to the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s May 26, 2016 working definition, including its contemporary examples. In practical terms, colleges and universities that are found to permit or support covered antisemitic events could risk losing access to federal student loan and grant programs, which are a major source of institutional and student funding.

Impact

If enacted, the bill would directly amend Section 487(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 and expand the conditions institutions must meet to participate in federal Title IV aid programs. It would create a new compliance obligation for colleges and universities and could expose institutions to loss of federal student aid eligibility if they authorize or support events deemed antisemitic under the incorporated IHRA definition. The bill would primarily affect higher education institutions, students relying on federal aid, and federal enforcement of campus conduct standards.

Sentiment

The bill’s stated purpose and sponsor list suggest strong support among its House backers for addressing antisemitism on college campuses. The measure was introduced with multiple cosponsors and referred to committee, but no committee debate or recorded votes were provided in the available materials. Based on the text alone, the bill is framed as a response to concerns about campus antisemitism and appears to be presented as a protective measure for Jewish students and campus communities.

Contention

The main point of contention is likely the bill’s use of the IHRA working definition of antisemitism, which has been debated in higher education and civil liberties contexts because critics argue it may be applied too broadly or could chill protected speech, especially around criticism of Israel or campus political activism. Another likely issue is the severity and administrability of the proposed penalty—loss of Title IV eligibility—for institutions that are found to have authorized or supported a covered event. Supporters would likely emphasize accountability and student protection, while opponents may focus on free speech, academic freedom, and enforcement concerns.