Contact: Amy Hasenberg, (608) 266-2839
MADISON – Governor Walker today signed Assembly Bill 553 into law reaffirming Wisconsin’s commitment to the State of Israel. The bill prohibits any state agency or another governmental unit from adopting a rule, ordinance, policy, or procedure that involves the state agency or governmental unit in a boycott of Israel.
“We are committed to maintaining and strengthening our relationship with Israel,” said Governor Walker. “We stand firmly against discrimination in any form, and we are making clear that our state government will not engage with those who boycott Israel.”
Last October, Governor Walker led a 15-member trade delegation to Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Wisconsin has a strong trade relationship with Israel, with exports totaling more than $80 million annually and importing more than $200 million annually. Prior to the trade mission, Governor Walker issued Executive Order #261 prohibiting state agencies from entering contracts with business entities that discriminate against Israel.
Assembly Bill 553 – Authored by Senator Leah Vukmir (R—Brookfield) and Representative Dale Kooyenga (R—Brookfield), the bill passed the Assembly on a voice vote and was concurred by the Senate on a voice vote. It is Act 248.
