Missouri Implements IHRA Definition to Combat Antisemitic Harassment in Schools
Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has signed a bill that adopts the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism and establishes a reporting system for antisemitic harassment in schools. The legislation, passed by the Missouri House of Representatives, defines antisemitism as a perception of Jews that may manifest as hatred and includes rhetorical and physical manifestations directed at Jewish individuals or their property. The bill emphasizes that criticism of Israel, similar to that of any other country, should not be considered antisemitic. The law mandates that public schools and districts treat antisemitic harassment and discrimination similarly to racial discrimination, integrating the definition into their codes of conduct. Schools will report incidents to Title VI civil rights coordinators for investigation. The legislation is set to take effect in August, allowing schools time to update their policies.