Bill > HB1929

This bill creates the Recognizing Judea and Samaria Act, which requires Arkansas state agencies to refer to the land controlled by Israel after the 1967 Six-Day War as "Judea and Samaria" instead of "West Bank" in all official government materials. Specifically, the bill defines the region geographically, with the land south of Jerusalem considered "Judea" and the land north of Jerusalem considered "Samaria". State agencies are prohibited from using the term "West Bank" in any official documents, guidance, rules, press releases, or communications, and cannot spend state funds on materials that use the term. The executive head of a state agency can request a waiver to use the term "West Bank" if they determine it is in the state's interests, but must submit a written explanation to the General Assembly or Legislative Council within 30 days of making such a determination. This bill appears to be a symbolic gesture of support for Israel's territorial claims and a reflection of specific geopolitical terminology preferences.

Government Affairs

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1929&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R