Anti-Semitic acts in New Jersey have increased over the last two years. But legislation officially identifying what anti-Semitism is continues to stall in the Legislature, despite being introduced more than a year ago.

It's hard to pinpoint a precise reason why, although some are bound to suggest a fear of offending someone.

The inaction in Trenton has caught the attention of Rep. Josh Gottheimer.

On Tuesday, the CD-5 congressman wrote to Craig Coughlin, the Assembly Speaker, calling for an "immediate vote" on the bill.

The legislation in question is A3558.

It will establish the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism as law in New Jersey.

And what is that? Here's the answer:

“Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.”
During debate on the bill, some have suggested that simply criticizing the state of Israel may run afoul of the legislation.

That sounds like a convenient observation, but it is not true.

The Alliance specifically states:

" ... Criticism of Israel similar to that leveled against any other country cannot be regarded as antisemitic."

Gottheimer said that it is "outrageous and shameful" that the Assembly refuses to vote on legislation to adopt the IHRA definition of antisemitism, as hate surges across our state. New Jersey ranks third in the nation for antisemitic incidents, according to the ADL’s 2024 audit, he said.

He added that "the IHRA definition has already been adopted by 35 states - and nearly 70 percent of the Assembly co-sponsors the bill. ... No more delays - our Jewish communities deserve better."

The congressman noted that many towns across New Jersey have adopted the Alliance's definition, including Highland Park, Woodcliff Lakes, Flemington, Warren Township, Margate, Longport, Ventnor, Woodbine, Livingston, Princeton, Brigantine, Middletown, Scotch Plains, Westfield, and Clinton.

He pointedly asks the Speaker, why is it taking so long to act on the bill?

Interestingly, this issue came up on the gubernatorial primary campaign trail.

Steve Fulop, who was destined to finish third in the race, said he opposed the bill, because it seemed to single out only the Jewish faith. Fulop's point was that many ethnic and religious groups face discrimination.

That may be what's holding things up in Trenton.

But that's no reason not to have a vote. Lawmakers can always vote no.