State Sen. Alexis Calatayud, whose district includes Key Biscayne, helped advance legislation this week aimed at addressing antisemitism in Florida.
The Florida Senate approved SB 1072, a bill that would create an 18-member statewide task force charged with studying antisemitism and recommending policies to the governor and legislative leaders.
Calatayud, a Miami-Dade Republican, added an amendment clarifying that the bill’s definition of antisemitism does not include criticism of Israel that is like criticism directed at other countries.
The task force would work with Jewish communities across Florida, review hate-crime laws and identify strategies and best practices to combat antisemitism. It would also examine state education efforts related to digital media literacy and recommend potential legislative changes.
The panel would be required to submit a report and policy recommendations to state leaders.
The chances of SB 1072 becoming law remain uncertain as the legislative session nears its end. A House companion measure, HB 111, has cleared one committee but still faces additional steps before reaching the House floor.
Calatayud represents Senate District 38, which includes Key Biscayne and portions of Miami-Dade County.