STATE CAPITOL, PHOENIX – State Representative David Livingston today introduced House Resolution 2002, the Judea & Samaria Act, affirming Israel’s sovereignty over Judea and Samaria and directing that Arizona state documents use the historically accurate terms “Judea” and “Samaria” rather than the politically imposed phrase “West Bank.” 

HR 2002 affirms the biblical, historical, and legal ties of the Jewish people to Judea and Samaria, citing foundational events recorded in Scripture, established principles of international law, and the regions’ role in Israel’s national defense. The resolution rejects the term “West Bank,” which was imposed during Jordan’s illegal occupation of the territory from 1948 to 1967.

Representative Livingston, a founding member of the National Association of Christian Lawmakers, traveled to Israel last November as part of an NACL delegation, an experience that reinforced his decision to introduce the measure.

“Judea and Samaria are not abstractions. They are the center of Jewish history, faith, and national identity,” Representative Livingston said. “Language matters. When governments adopt terminology meant to sever Jewish ties to the land, they choose politics over truth. HR 2002 affirms history, Scripture, and the values that shaped both Western civilization and the United States.”

The resolution also notes the strategic importance of Judea and Samaria to Israel’s security and to U.S. interests in preventing the emergence of terrorist-controlled territory in the Middle East.

HR 2002 calls on Arizona to use accurate terminology in all official state communications and affirms the Arizona House’s support for Israel’s sovereignty over Judea and Samaria.

David Livingston is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives serving Legislative District 28 in Peoria. He also serves as Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee. Follow him on X at @Livingston4AZ.