A bill signed into law by Governor Tony Evers has changed the definition of antisemitism.
Wisconsin Act 143, authored by State Representative Ron Tusler of Harrison, adopted the definition used by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance.
The bill also specifies that nothing may be construed to diminish or infringe upon any right protected under the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution or to conflict with federal or state antidiscrimination laws.
Rep. Tusler says that means someone would have to commit a hate crime for the definition to be considered.
He continues explaining that the bill provides protections for the Jewish community while supporting law enforcement and institutions in distinguishing hatred from legitimate expression.
While the Harrison Republican was happy with Gov. Evers signing the bill, some Democrats, including State Gubernatorial Candidate Francesca Hong, said the bill will compromise free speech across the state and academic freedom at different universities.
