Florida's Legislative Push to Ban "West Bank" in Schools

Florida legislators are advancing a bill, known as the Recognizing Judea and Samaria Act (HB 31), which seeks to prohibit the use of the term "West Bank" in K-12 public schools and state agencies, including public colleges and universities. Instead, the legislation mandates the use of "Judea and Samaria," a term favored by the right-wing Israeli government that refers to the same territory. This area, recognized internationally as the Israeli-occupied Palestinian territory, was seized from Jordan during the 1967 Six-Day War.

Florida bill seeks to ban use of ‘West Bank’ in schools and state agenciesUtah bill would ban "West Bank" in state documents

The bill aligns with a broader trend among several U.S. states, including Arkansas, which became the first to enact similar legislation in April 2025. The push for such terminology reflects a growing influence of right-wing narratives in U.S. politics, particularly among Republican lawmakers. The Florida bill is notable for its inclusion of K-12 education, a departure from previous legislative efforts that primarily targeted state documents.

Florida bill seeks to ban use of ‘West Bank’ in schools and state agencies

Debra Tendrich, a Democratic representative from Lake Worth and one of the bill's sponsors, argues that the legislation is necessary to combat the perceived "erasure" of Jewish historical connections to the land. Conversely, Democratic representative Angie Nixon of Jacksonville contends that the proposal could be interpreted as an attack on Palestinian identity, emphasizing the need for a balanced historical narrative.

Florida bill seeks to ban use of ‘West Bank’ in schools and state agencies

Adam Abutaa, the Florida organizing manager for Emgage Action, a Muslim-American advocacy group, criticized the bill for elevating one narrative while erasing another. He stated that it restricts how educators and public institutions can discuss a region recognized by both the U.S. government and the international community.

Florida bill seeks to ban use of ‘West Bank’ in schools and state agencies

The Florida House version of the bill was advanced by the state affairs committee on January 27, 2026, and is awaiting debate on the house floor. A parallel Senate bill (SB 1106) is still pending committee review. With Republicans controlling both chambers, the likelihood of the bill's passage appears significant.

Florida bill seeks to ban use of ‘West Bank’ in schools and state agencies

Critics of the legislation argue that it represents a state-sanctioned attempt to erase Palestinian identity and terminology. They assert that such measures contribute to a broader narrative that undermines the historical and cultural significance of the Palestinian people and their connection to the land.

Florida bill seeks to ban use of ‘West Bank’ in schools and state agencies

While the bill has garnered support from certain political factions, there is a notable divide in public opinion regarding its implications for educational content and historical accuracy. The debate continues over whether the legislation serves to correct historical narratives or further marginalize Palestinian perspectives.

Florida bill seeks to ban use of ‘West Bank’ in schools and state agencies

• “Jordan coined the term West Bank, not for any other reason than to erase the Jewish connection from this land,” — Debra Tendrich, Democratic Representative

Florida bill seeks to ban use of ‘West Bank’ in schools and state agencies

• “This bill does not operate in the abstract; it touches people’s histories, families and lived realities,” — William Johnson, PEN America’s Florida Director

Florida bill seeks to ban use of ‘West Bank’ in schools and state agencies