Governor Pence Ceremonially Signs Bill Affirming Indiana’s Support of Israel

Bill Requires Indiana Retirement System to Divest from Businesses Engaging in Action to Boycott, Divest or Sanction the State of Israel

Indianapolis – Governor Mike Pence  joined Israeli Ambassador to the United States Ron Dermer and Speaker Brian Bosma (R – Indianapolis) in the Statehouse Rotunda to ceremonially sign House Enrolled Act (HEA) 1378, which requires the Indiana Public Retirement System (INPRS) to divest from any business that engages in action to boycott, divest or sanction the state of Israel. The bill passed with overwhelming bipartisan support in both the House and Senate, and goes into effect July 1, 2016. The Governor signed the bill into law on March 23, 2016.

“As I ceremonially sign House Enrolled Act 1378, let us celebrate Indiana’s commitment and support for the state of Israel,” said Governor Pence. “I have long believed that Israel is our most cherished ally, and I’m honored to join Israeli Ambassador Ron Dermer today as Hoosiers affirm our support for the state of Israel. I am thankful to the overwhelmingly bipartisan group of legislators who worked together to make clear that Indiana will not do business with those who seek to inflict financial damage on the people of Israel.”

According to INPRS, HEA 1378 would require INPRS to divest an estimated $50 million in assets of the $28.3 billion invested by the agency.

Also in attendance were bill sponsors Sen. Jim Merritt (R – Indianapolis), Sen. Dennis Kruse (R – Auburn), and Sen. Brandt Hershman (R – Buck Creek).

A photo from today’s ceremonial bill signing can be found attached.