Griffo, Antisemitism Working Group express disappointment after two bills protecting Jewish students and addressing antisemitism on college campuses blocked in committee

Joseph A. Griffo

May 16, 2025

New York State Sen. Joseph Griffo, R-C-Rome, and ranking member of the Senate’s Higher Education Committee, joined with his colleagues in the Antisemitism Working Group to express disappointment after Democrat members of the committee blocked two pieces of legislation sponsored by members of the Senate Republican Conference to address antisemitism on college campuses.
 
The bills, which would have protected Jewish students and held colleges and universities accountable for allowing organized demonstrations of hate, were:
 
  • S.1752 by Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick that enacts the “dismantling student antisemitism act,” or “DSA act” that would require mandatory sensitivity training on antisemitism and institute reporting requirements regarding antisemitism complaints and disciplinary processes on college campuses.
     
  • S.1268 by Senator Steve Rhoads that prohibits state funding for any degree-granting institution of higher education if they permit certain pro-terrorist groups on campus, and any group or organization on such campuses that engage in or promote terrorist activities.
 
In light of protests on the campuses of Columbia University and Brooklyn College, it is imperative that students simply looking to further their education are protected. Yet in Albany, the legislative majorities are rejecting policies to hold these disruptors accountable and keep students safe.
 
“I am disappointed that the Senate Higher Education Committee struck down two bills that would have further protected Jewish students and addressed antisemitism on college campuses across the state,” Sen. Griffo said. “Students, faculty and staff should feel safe when on campus and should not have to live in fear because of their religion. I will continue to support policies that will prevent, and hopefully eradicate, antisemitism because there is no place for such hatred in New York or anywhere else for that matter.”
 
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