In a surprising turn of events, Speaker Mike Johnson and House Republicans joined forces with Democrats to pass a sweeping hate crime bill that, in its current form, could potentially outlaw passages from the Holy Bible.

The Antisemitism Awareness Act, aimed at addressing the recent violent riots on university campuses, has garnered overwhelming support in the House.

The legislation mandates the Department of Education to utilize the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism to enforce antidiscrimination laws.

However, it seems that Congress failed to thoroughly review the IHRA’s definition, as it now classifies any claim that Jews were responsible for Jesus’ death as antisemitic. Consequently, this has led to the unintended criminalization of the New Testament.

Congressman Andy Biggs (R-AZ) expressed his opposition to antisemitism in all its forms, condemning the pro-Hamas and anti-Israel events on campuses. However, he criticized the bill for being poorly drafted and unconstitutional, warning of potential repercussions for the Christian community.

“I oppose antisemitism in all its forms. The pro-Hamas, pro-genocide, anti-Israel events happening across the nation are sickening and should be condemned in the strongest fashion,” said Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ). “This bill is little more than an effort to score political points and is so poorly drafted that it violates the Constitution and could have serious ramifications for the Christian community,” the congressman warned. “For a matter as serious as this, the House should have considered the bill through regular order where those concerns could have been considered and alleviated.”

Congressman Matt Gaetz (R-FL) was also a no vote on the legislation and warned that Christians could face significant blowback.

Similarly, Congressman Matt Gaetz (R-FL) voiced his concerns, stating that even the Gospel could be labeled as antisemitic under the bill’s terms. Congressman Troy Nehls of Texas argued that existing laws already address antisemitism, suggesting that the bill’s true intent was to send a message.

However, this legislative oversight, if not corrected, could have severe implications for religious freedom and freedom of speech. It is crucial for Congress to revisit and amend the Antisemitism Awareness Act to prevent unintended consequences and uphold the Constitution.