Amidst the ongoing war in Gaza following the terrorist assault by Hamas upon Israel, Nassau County Legislator Joshua Lafazan (D – Woodbury) filed legislation on Monday, Oct. 30 that would establish the County of Nassau-Israel Commission.
Based upon the model established by the New Jersey - Israel Commission, which was formed in 1989 and remains active in the present day, Nassau’s Commission would be tasked with identifying “areas for collaboration between government, public, and private entities in Nassau County and Israel.” In doing so, it would establish subcommittees focused on economic development and international trade; research, science and technology, education; arts, culture, and tourism; and other areas of focus as determined by the Commission to foster the development of capital investment and business enterprises and build a spirit of cooperation between the citizens of Israel and Nassau County.
The Commission will also be tasked with upholding the County’s law banning companies who support Boycott, Divest and Sanction (BDS) policies from earning government contracts, and would work in tandem with Long Island nonprofits on philanthropic efforts to support Israeli soldiers and citizens during the war.
An equal number of Majority and Minority Caucus Legislators would serve on the Commission alongside community members from an array of business entities that would be appointed in equal proportions by the Legislative Majority, Minority and County Executive. The County Executive or a designee will serve as an ex official member of the commission.
Legislator Lafazan’s proposal comes in the aftermath of the deadly sneak Oct. 7 sneak attack upon Israel by Hamas terrorists that killed thousands and resulted in hundreds of Israeli soldiers and citizens being taken hostage. Not only is supporting the Israeli economy of vital importance amidst its ongoing war efforts against Hamas, Legislator Lafazan and community leaders agreed that further economic collaboration would benefit Nassau County businesses across various economic centers.
“As Israel continues its battle to eradicate the barbarism of Hamas from the world, the United States must not only stand with Israel, but intensify our support of our most important democratic ally in the Middle East,” Legislator Lafazan said. “Nassau County, which is graced by one of the world’s most sizable and vibrant Jewish communities, has a unique opportunity and responsibility to aid Israel in its pursuit of lasting peace. Forming a dedicated County of Nassau – Israel Commission is an important first step in living up to reinforcing our special connection.”