Adams signs orders to shield Israel Investments, regulate protests near NYC houses of worship

"New York City not only has a strong bond with the State of Israel because of our commitment to protecting a Jewish homeland, but also because it has always been a sound financial investment, and our financial decisions should continue to reflect that truth, Adams said in a press release. Today, we are proud to sign this executive order and affirm that our investments and contracts should be made on the basis of what is best for New York City and our economic future,"

"One order Adams issued on Dec. 3, No. 60, prohibits city officials and appointees who handle contracts from discriminating against Israel, Israelis or those connected to Israel in their purchasing decisions. According to the mayor's office, the order also prohibits the chief pension administrator and mayoral trustees of the city pension system from opposing divestment from bonds and other assets that would discriminate against Israel or its citizens, or those associated with the country."

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams signed two executive orders on Dec. 3 supporting Israel and Jewish New Yorkers less than a month after visiting Israel and ahead of the Jan. 1 transition. Executive Order No. 60 bars city officials and appointees who handle contracts from discriminating against Israel, Israelis, or those connected to Israel, and restricts pension trustees from opposing divestment from bonds or assets that would discriminate against Israel or its citizens. Executive Order No. 61 directs the NYPD commissioner to evaluate potential patrol guide changes and proposals for regulating protests near houses of worship. Zohran Mamdani, the incoming mayor, has been critical of Israel and previously supported BDS, prompting accusations of antisemitism from some New Yorkers.

Read at www.amny.com