Keeping Official Territories Eligible for Land-use Act; KOTEL Act
Summary
H.R. 4983, the "Keeping Official Territories Eligible for Land-use Act" or "KOTEL Act," seeks to repeal Section 414 of the Omnibus Diplomatic Security and Antiterrorism Act of 1986. This section currently prohibits the use of funds for site acquisition, development, or construction of any facility in Israel, Jerusalem, or the West Bank.
The bill, if enacted, would remove this prohibition, potentially allowing US government funds to be used for such projects in these areas. This could have implications for US foreign policy and its relationship with Israel and the Palestinian territories.
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on August 15, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of the KOTEL Act would be to lift the existing prohibition on using US government funds for projects in Israel, Jerusalem, and the West Bank. This could lead to increased US investment in these areas.
This could also alter the existing diplomatic landscape and potentially affect the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The removal of the funding restriction may be interpreted as a shift in US policy.
Potential Benefits
- Potential for infrastructure development and economic growth in Israel, Jerusalem, and the West Bank.
- Increased US influence and involvement in the region.
- May strengthen the US-Israel relationship.
- Could facilitate the construction of facilities that serve US interests in the region.
- Potentially streamline bureaucratic processes related to funding projects in the specified areas.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- May be viewed as taking sides in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, potentially harming US relations with Palestinians and Arab nations.
- Could violate international law or agreements regarding the status of Jerusalem and the West Bank.
- Risk of funds being used for projects that exacerbate tensions or undermine peace efforts.
- Potential for increased political instability in the region.
- May face opposition from groups who believe the funds could be better used elsewhere.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill itself does not directly violate any specific clause of the US Constitution. Congress has the power to allocate funds and conduct foreign policy under Article I, Section 8.
However, the constitutionality of the bill could be challenged if the funds are used in a way that violates international treaties or agreements to which the US is a party. The First Amendment regarding religion could also be invoked if the funds are used to favor one religion over another.
Ultimately, the alignment with the Constitution depends on how the funds are used if the bill becomes law.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).