The Knesset plenum unanimously approved, at preliminary reading on Wednesday, a bill to recognize Israeli Sign Language as the first language of deaf Israelis, with 34 MKs voting in favor and none opposed, according to the bill’s sponsors.
The proposal, submitted by MK Chili Tropper and joined by MK Avichay Buaron, now moves to the Knesset Education, Culture, and Sports Committee for further deliberation.
The bill would formally recognize Israeli Sign Language while maintaining the status of other sign languages used in Israel. It would also require the state to preserve, develop, and promote ISL, with the culture and sports minister responsible for implementation.
“Sign language is a rich and unique language that enables a deaf person to communicate and express themselves in their natural language, shared and inclusive for all,” the bill states.
The notes add that because deaf people are born into or live in hearing families and society, sign language is essential for realizing their full potential and for integration alongside Hebrew, with dignity, equality, and freedom.
Over 50,000 people live with hearing impairments in Israel
Israel’s Central Bureau of Statistics reported that in 2022, more than 55,000 people with hearing impairments lived in Israel. The sponsors argue that formal recognition would strengthen services, education, and cultural access for the deaf community.
With no opposition in the preliminary vote, the bill proceeds to committee, where members will refine provisions on state obligations and oversight. Under the draft, the culture and sports minister would be responsible for implementing the law, including initiatives to safeguard and advance ISL.
Former MK Shirly Pinto, who is deaf, welcomed the vote, calling it “a historic moment of redress, recognition, and equal opportunity.” Pinto said ISL is a living language, culture, and identity for the entire community, and thanked MKs Tropper and Buaron and activists for their sustained work to promote the bill.