Hogan had previously attempted to pass such a policy through the state's legislator, but it had fallen short without even coming up for a vote, the report said.
In a press conference, Hogan said that the anti-Israel BDS (Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions) movement uses "economic discrimination" against Israel. As a result of his order, contracts signed by the state of Maryland will include language that would make it clear that the company participating in the contract does not engage in boycotts against Israel. Maryland's state pension funds will also divest from such companies, he added.
The Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington expressed support for Hogan's order, calling it "one more sign that he is a true friend to Israel and the Jewish community."
Over the last few years, several U.S. states have advanced legislation against BDS.
| The Times of Israel adds: |
SonnyCuomo
, a Democrat, issued the first executive order in the country that forces state entities to drop investments linked to boycotts of Israel. State legislatures have been passing measures to stop boycotts. So far, 23 states have enacted laws or issued executive orders banning state business with companies that support boycotts.