assignment meaning law dictionary

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• The process where one person appoints responsibilities or roles to another
• The specific role, job, or duty given to a particular person
• A specific task given or allocated to someone
• Transferring ownership of assets or rights from one person to another
• The assignment of the project workload was divided among team members carefully.
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The Law Dictionary

TheLaw.com Law Dictionary & Black's Law Dictionary 2nd Ed.

This refers to the transfer of property rights from one person to another person, the assignor transferring the property to the assignee.

Law Dictionary – Alternative Legal Definition

In contracts. 1. The act by which one person transfers to another, or causes to vest in that other, the whole of the right, interest, or property which he has in any realty or personalty, in possession or in action, or any share, interest, or subsidiary estate therein. Seventh Nat. Bank v. Iron Co. (C. C.) 35 Fed. 440; Haug v. Riley, 101 Ga. 372, 29 S. E. 44, 40 L R. A. 244. More particularly, a written transfer of property, as distinguished from a transfer by mere delivery. 2. In a narrower sense, the transfer or for life or years. Assignment does not include testamentary transfers. The idea of an assignment is essentially that of a transfer by one existing party to another existing party of some species of property or valuable interest, except in the case of an executor. Blight v. Sackett, 34 N. Y. 447. 3. A transfer or making over by a debtor of all his property and effects to one or more assignees in trust for the benefit of his creditors. 2 Story, Eq. Jur.

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• assignments basic law

Assignments: The Basic Law

The assignment of a right or obligation is a common contractual event under the law and the right to assign (or prohibition against assignments) is found in the majority of agreements, leases and business structural documents created in the United States.

As with many terms commonly used, people are familiar with the term but often are not aware or fully aware of what the terms entail. The concept of assignment of rights and obligations is one of those simple concepts with wide ranging ramifications in the contractual and business context and the law imposes severe restrictions on the validity and effect of assignment in many instances. Clear contractual provisions concerning assignments and rights should be in every document and structure created and this article will outline why such drafting is essential for the creation of appropriate and effective contracts and structures.

The reader should first read the article on Limited Liability Entities in the United States and Contracts since the information in those articles will be assumed in this article.

Basic Definitions and Concepts:

An assignment is the transfer of rights held by one party called the “assignor” to another party called the “assignee.” The legal nature of the assignment and the contractual terms of the agreement between the parties determines some additional rights and liabilities that accompany the assignment. The assignment of rights under a contract usually completely transfers the rights to the assignee to receive the benefits accruing under the contract. Ordinarily, the term assignment is limited to the transfer of rights that are intangible, like contractual rights and rights connected with property. Merchants Service Co. v. Small Claims Court , 35 Cal. 2d 109, 113-114 (Cal. 1950).

An assignment will generally be permitted under the law unless there is an express prohibition against assignment in the underlying contract or lease. Where assignments are permitted, the assignor need not consult the other party to the contract but may merely assign the rights at that time. However, an assignment cannot have any adverse effect on the duties of the other party to the contract, nor can it diminish the chance of the other party receiving complete performance. The assignor normally remains liable unless there is an agreement to the contrary by the other party to the contract.

The effect of a valid assignment is to remove privity between the assignor and the obligor and create privity between the obligor and the assignee. Privity is usually defined as a direct and immediate contractual relationship. See Merchants case above.

Further, for the assignment to be effective in most jurisdictions, it must occur in the present. One does not normally assign a future right; the assignment vests immediate rights and obligations.

No specific language is required to create an assignment so long as the assignor makes clear his/her intent to assign identified contractual rights to the assignee. Since expensive litigation can erupt from ambiguous or vague language, obtaining the correct verbiage is vital. An agreement must manifest the intent to transfer rights and can either be oral or in writing and the rights assigned must be certain.

Note that an assignment of an interest is the transfer of some identifiable property, claim, or right from the assignor to the assignee. The assignment operates to transfer to the assignee all of the rights, title, or interest of the assignor in the thing assigned. A transfer of all rights, title, and interests conveys everything that the assignor owned in the thing assigned and the assignee stands in the shoes of the assignor. Knott v. McDonald’s Corp ., 985 F. Supp. 1222 (N.D. Cal. 1997)

The parties must intend to effectuate an assignment at the time of the transfer, although no particular language or procedure is necessary. As long ago as the case of National Reserve Co. v. Metropolitan Trust Co ., 17 Cal. 2d 827 (Cal. 1941), the court held that in determining what rights or interests pass under an assignment, the intention of the parties as manifested in the instrument is controlling.

The intent of the parties to an assignment is a question of fact to be derived not only from the instrument executed by the parties but also from the surrounding circumstances. When there is no writing to evidence the intention to transfer some identifiable property, claim, or right, it is necessary to scrutinize the surrounding circumstances and parties’ acts to ascertain their intentions. Strosberg v. Brauvin Realty Servs., 295 Ill. App. 3d 17 (Ill. App. Ct. 1st Dist. 1998)

The general rule applicable to assignments of choses in action is that an assignment, unless there is a contract to the contrary, carries with it all securities held by the assignor as collateral to the claim and all rights incidental thereto and vests in the assignee the equitable title to such collateral securities and incidental rights. An unqualified assignment of a contract or chose in action, however, with no indication of the intent of the parties, vests in the assignee the assigned contract or chose and all rights and remedies incidental thereto.

More examples: In Strosberg v. Brauvin Realty Servs ., 295 Ill. App. 3d 17 (Ill. App. Ct. 1st Dist. 1998), the court held that the assignee of a party to a subordination agreement is entitled to the benefits and is subject to the burdens of the agreement. In Florida E. C. R. Co. v. Eno , 99 Fla. 887 (Fla. 1930), the court held that the mere assignment of all sums due in and of itself creates no different or other liability of the owner to the assignee than that which existed from the owner to the assignor.

And note that even though an assignment vests in the assignee all rights, remedies, and contingent benefits which are incidental to the thing assigned, those which are personal to the assignor and for his sole benefit are not assigned. Rasp v. Hidden Valley Lake, Inc ., 519 N.E.2d 153, 158 (Ind. Ct. App. 1988). Thus, if the underlying agreement provides that a service can only be provided to X, X cannot assign that right to Y.

Novation Compared to Assignment:

Although the difference between a novation and an assignment may appear narrow, it is an essential one. “Novation is a act whereby one party transfers all its obligations and benefits under a contract to a third party.” In a novation, a third party successfully substitutes the original party as a party to the contract. “When a contract is novated, the other contracting party must be left in the same position he was in prior to the novation being made.”

A sublease is the transfer when a tenant retains some right of reentry onto the leased premises. However, if the tenant transfers the entire leasehold estate, retaining no right of reentry or other reversionary interest, then the transfer is an assignment. The assignor is normally also removed from liability to the landlord only if the landlord consents or allowed that right in the lease. In a sublease, the original tenant is not released from the obligations of the original lease.

Equitable Assignments:

An equitable assignment is one in which one has a future interest and is not valid at law but valid in a court of equity. In National Bank of Republic v. United Sec. Life Ins. & Trust Co. , 17 App. D.C. 112 (D.C. Cir. 1900), the court held that to constitute an equitable assignment of a chose in action, the following has to occur generally: anything said written or done, in pursuance of an agreement and for valuable consideration, or in consideration of an antecedent debt, to place a chose in action or fund out of the control of the owner, and appropriate it to or in favor of another person, amounts to an equitable assignment. Thus, an agreement, between a debtor and a creditor, that the debt shall be paid out of a specific fund going to the debtor may operate as an equitable assignment.

In Egyptian Navigation Co. v. Baker Invs. Corp. , 2008 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 30804 (S.D.N.Y. Apr. 14, 2008), the court stated that an equitable assignment occurs under English law when an assignor, with an intent to transfer his/her right to a chose in action, informs the assignee about the right so transferred.

An executory agreement or a declaration of trust are also equitable assignments if unenforceable as assignments by a court of law but enforceable by a court of equity exercising sound discretion according to the circumstances of the case. Since California combines courts of equity and courts of law, the same court would hear arguments as to whether an equitable assignment had occurred. Quite often, such relief is granted to avoid fraud or unjust enrichment.

Note that obtaining an assignment through fraudulent means invalidates the assignment. Fraud destroys the validity of everything into which it enters. It vitiates the most solemn contracts, documents, and even judgments. Walker v. Rich , 79 Cal. App. 139 (Cal. App. 1926). If an assignment is made with the fraudulent intent to delay, hinder, and defraud creditors, then it is void as fraudulent in fact. See our article on Transfers to Defraud Creditors .

But note that the motives that prompted an assignor to make the transfer will be considered as immaterial and will constitute no defense to an action by the assignee, if an assignment is considered as valid in all other respects.

Enforceability of Assignments:

Whether a right under a contract is capable of being transferred is determined by the law of the place where the contract was entered into. The validity and effect of an assignment is determined by the law of the place of assignment. The validity of an assignment of a contractual right is governed by the law of the state with the most significant relationship to the assignment and the parties.

In some jurisdictions, the traditional conflict of laws rules governing assignments has been rejected and the law of the place having the most significant contacts with the assignment applies. In Downs v. American Mut. Liability Ins. Co ., 14 N.Y.2d 266 (N.Y. 1964), a wife and her husband separated and the wife obtained a judgment of separation from the husband in New York. The judgment required the husband to pay a certain yearly sum to the wife. The husband assigned 50 percent of his future salary, wages, and earnings to the wife. The agreement authorized the employer to make such payments to the wife.

After the husband moved from New York, the wife learned that he was employed by an employer in Massachusetts. She sent the proper notice and demanded payment under the agreement. The employer refused and the wife brought an action for enforcement. The court observed that Massachusetts did not prohibit assignment of the husband’s wages. Moreover, Massachusetts law was not controlling because New York had the most significant relationship with the assignment. Therefore, the court ruled in favor of the wife.

Therefore, the validity of an assignment is determined by looking to the law of the forum with the most significant relationship to the assignment itself. To determine the applicable law of assignments, the court must look to the law of the state which is most significantly related to the principal issue before it.

Assignment of Contractual Rights:

Generally, the law allows the assignment of a contractual right unless the substitution of rights would materially change the duty of the obligor, materially increase the burden or risk imposed on the obligor by the contract, materially impair the chance of obtaining return performance, or materially reduce the value of the performance to the obligor. Restat 2d of Contracts, § 317(2)(a). This presumes that the underlying agreement is silent on the right to assign.

If the contract specifically precludes assignment, the contractual right is not assignable. Whether a contract is assignable is a matter of contractual intent and one must look to the language used by the parties to discern that intent.

In the absence of an express provision to the contrary, the rights and duties under a bilateral executory contract that does not involve personal skill, trust, or confidence may be assigned without the consent of the other party. But note that an assignment is invalid if it would materially alter the other party’s duties and responsibilities. Once an assignment is effective, the assignee stands in the shoes of the assignor and assumes all of assignor’s rights. Hence, after a valid assignment, the assignor’s right to performance is extinguished, transferred to assignee, and the assignee possesses the same rights, benefits, and remedies assignor once possessed. Robert Lamb Hart Planners & Architects v. Evergreen, Ltd. , 787 F. Supp. 753 (S.D. Ohio 1992).

On the other hand, an assignee’s right against the obligor is subject to “all of the limitations of the assignor’s right, all defenses thereto, and all set-offs and counterclaims which would have been available against the assignor had there been no assignment, provided that these defenses and set-offs are based on facts existing at the time of the assignment.” See Robert Lamb , case, above.

The power of the contract to restrict assignment is broad. Usually, contractual provisions that restrict assignment of the contract without the consent of the obligor are valid and enforceable, even when there is statutory authorization for the assignment. The restriction of the power to assign is often ineffective unless the restriction is expressly and precisely stated. Anti-assignment clauses are effective only if they contain clear, unambiguous language of prohibition. Anti-assignment clauses protect only the obligor and do not affect the transaction between the assignee and assignor.

Usually, a prohibition against the assignment of a contract does not prevent an assignment of the right to receive payments due, unless circumstances indicate the contrary. Moreover, the contracting parties cannot, by a mere non-assignment provision, prevent the effectual alienation of the right to money which becomes due under the contract.

A contract provision prohibiting or restricting an assignment may be waived, or a party may so act as to be estopped from objecting to the assignment, such as by effectively ratifying the assignment. The power to void an assignment made in violation of an anti-assignment clause may be waived either before or after the assignment. See our article on Contracts.

Noncompete Clauses and Assignments:

Of critical import to most buyers of businesses is the ability to ensure that key employees of the business being purchased cannot start a competing company. Some states strictly limit such clauses, some do allow them. California does restrict noncompete clauses, only allowing them under certain circumstances. A common question in those states that do allow them is whether such rights can be assigned to a new party, such as the buyer of the buyer.

A covenant not to compete, also called a non-competitive clause, is a formal agreement prohibiting one party from performing similar work or business within a designated area for a specified amount of time. This type of clause is generally included in contracts between employer and employee and contracts between buyer and seller of a business.

Many workers sign a covenant not to compete as part of the paperwork required for employment. It may be a separate document similar to a non-disclosure agreement, or buried within a number of other clauses in a contract. A covenant not to compete is generally legal and enforceable, although there are some exceptions and restrictions.

Whenever a company recruits skilled employees, it invests a significant amount of time and training. For example, it often takes years before a research chemist or a design engineer develops a workable knowledge of a company’s product line, including trade secrets and highly sensitive information. Once an employee gains this knowledge and experience, however, all sorts of things can happen. The employee could work for the company until retirement, accept a better offer from a competing company or start up his or her own business.

A covenant not to compete may cover a number of potential issues between employers and former employees. Many companies spend years developing a local base of customers or clients. It is important that this customer base not fall into the hands of local competitors. When an employee signs a covenant not to compete, he or she usually agrees not to use insider knowledge of the company’s customer base to disadvantage the company. The covenant not to compete often defines a broad geographical area considered off-limits to former employees, possibly tens or hundreds of miles.

Another area of concern covered by a covenant not to compete is a potential ‘brain drain’. Some high-level former employees may seek to recruit others from the same company to create new competition. Retention of employees, especially those with unique skills or proprietary knowledge, is vital for most companies, so a covenant not to compete may spell out definite restrictions on the hiring or recruiting of employees.

A covenant not to compete may also define a specific amount of time before a former employee can seek employment in a similar field. Many companies offer a substantial severance package to make sure former employees are financially solvent until the terms of the covenant not to compete have been met.

Because the use of a covenant not to compete can be controversial, a handful of states, including California, have largely banned this type of contractual language. The legal enforcement of these agreements falls on individual states, and many have sided with the employee during arbitration or litigation. A covenant not to compete must be reasonable and specific, with defined time periods and coverage areas. If the agreement gives the company too much power over former employees or is ambiguous, state courts may declare it to be overbroad and therefore unenforceable. In such case, the employee would be free to pursue any employment opportunity, including working for a direct competitor or starting up a new company of his or her own.

It has been held that an employee’s covenant not to compete is assignable where one business is transferred to another, that a merger does not constitute an assignment of a covenant not to compete, and that a covenant not to compete is enforceable by a successor to the employer where the assignment does not create an added burden of employment or other disadvantage to the employee. However, in some states such as Hawaii, it has also been held that a covenant not to compete is not assignable and under various statutes for various reasons that such covenants are not enforceable against an employee by a successor to the employer. Hawaii v. Gannett Pac. Corp. , 99 F. Supp. 2d 1241 (D. Haw. 1999)

It is vital to obtain the relevant law of the applicable state before drafting or attempting to enforce assignment rights in this particular area.

Conclusion:

In the current business world of fast changing structures, agreements, employees and projects, the ability to assign rights and obligations is essential to allow flexibility and adjustment to new situations. Conversely, the ability to hold a contracting party into the deal may be essential for the future of a party. Thus, the law of assignments and the restriction on same is a critical aspect of every agreement and every structure. This basic provision is often glanced at by the contracting parties, or scribbled into the deal at the last minute but can easily become the most vital part of the transaction.

As an example, one client of ours came into the office outraged that his co venturer on a sizable exporting agreement, who had excellent connections in Brazil, had elected to pursue another venture instead and assigned the agreement to a party unknown to our client and without the business contacts our client considered vital. When we examined the handwritten agreement our client had drafted in a restaurant in Sao Paolo, we discovered there was no restriction on assignment whatsoever…our client had not even considered that right when drafting the agreement after a full day of work.

One choses who one does business with carefully…to ensure that one’s choice remains the party on the other side of the contract, one must master the ability to negotiate proper assignment provisions.

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• Legal Dictionary

Assignment is a legal definition that refers to the transfer of rights, property, or other benefits between two parties. The party allocating the rights is known as the “assignor”, while the one receiving them is called the “assignee”. The other original party to the contract is known as the “ obligor ”.

A burden, duty, or detriment cannot be transferred as an assignment without the agreement of the assignee . Furthermore, the assignment can be carried out as a gift, or it may be paid for with a contractual consideration .

Keep reading to learn how this important legal term is used both in contract and property law and to see relevant examples.

• Assignment Examples

A common example of assignment within property law can be seen in rental agreements between landlords and tenants. For example, a tenant may be renting from a landlord but wants another party to take over the property . In this scenario, the tenant may be able to choose between assigning the lease to a new tenant or subleasing it.

If assigning it, the new tenant will be given the entire balance of the term, with no reversion to anyone else being possible. In other words, the new tenant would have a legal relationship with the landlord. On the other hand, if subleasing the property, the new tenant would be given a limited term and no legal responsibility towards the property owner, only towards the original tenant.

Another example of assignment can be seen within contract law . Let’s say that a school hires a piano teacher for a monthly employment contract with a salary of $2000 per month. As long as there is consent from all parties, the teacher could assign their contract to another qualified piano instructor.

This would be an assignment both of the piano teacher’s rights to receive $2000 per month, and a delegation of their duty to teach piano lessons. This illustrates the fact that under contract law, assignment always includes a transfer of both rights and duties between the parties. If a breach of contract is made by either party, for example for defective performance, then the new teacher or the school can sue each other accordingly.

• Legal Requirements for Assignment

For an assignment to be legally valid, it must meet certain requirements . If these are not met, a trial court can determine that the transfer of rights did not occur. The legal requirements for assignment are as follows:

• All parties must consent and be legally capable to carry out the assignment.
• The objects, rights, or benefits being transferred must be legal.
• The assignment is not against public policy or illegal.
• Some type of consideration is included if necessary.
• The contract in question must already be in place and doesn’t prohibit assignment.
• If a duty is being transferred, and it requires a rare genius or skill, then it cannot be delegated.
• The assignment doesn’t significantly change the expected outcome of a contract.
• Assignment Steps

To successfully assign a contract, certain steps must be followed to ensure the process is legally valid. The necessary assignment steps are listed below:

• Ensuring there is no anti-assignment clause in the contract.
• Executing the assignment by transferring the obligations and rights to a third party.
• Notifying the obligor of the transfer, which in turn relieves the assignor of any liability.
• Avoiding Assignment

In certain situations, one of the two parties may not want to allow their counterpart to assign the contract. This can be prevented by setting anti-assignment clauses in the original contract. An example of this is making it necessary for prior written consent to be attained from the other parties before the assignment is approved. Nevertheless, an anti-assignment clause cannot be included in an assignment that was issued or ordered by a court.

• Assignment vs. Novation

Novation occurs when a party would like to transfer both the benefits and burden of a contract to another party. This is similar to assignment in the sense that the benefits are transferred, but in this case, the burden is also passed on. When novation is finalized, the original contract is deleted and a new one is created, in which a third party becomes responsible for all the obligations and rights of the original contract.

• Assignment vs. Delegation

Although delegation and assignment are similar in purpose, they are two different concepts. Delegation refers to transferring the obligation to a third party without an assignment contract . While in assignment an entire contract and its rights and benefits can be passed on, in delegation only a particular contractual task or activity is transferred.

Let’s look at an example . Lisa is a homeowner that wants to hire Michael with an independent contractor agreement to remodel her garage. He plans to do all the work himself, but he’s not a painter, so he wants to delegate the painting work to his friend Valentina.

In this example, the contract is between Lisa, the obligor, and Michael, the delegator. Valentina would then be known as a delegatee, she doesn’t assume responsibility for the contract nor does she receive the contractual benefits, which in this case would be monetary compensation. However, Michael may have a separate agreement with Valentina to pay her in return for her work.

It’s also important to note that some duties are so specific in nature that it’s not possible to delegate them. In addition, if a party wants to avoid delegation , it’s recommended to add a clause to prevent the other party from delegating their duties.

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Assignment Law: Everything You Need to Know

In legal terms, the meaning of an assignment is a contractual obligation to transfer a property title or right from one party to another. 3 min read updated on February 01, 2023

The term assignment law is used in the law of real estate and in the law of contracts. In both instances, it relates to the transfer of rights held by one party (the assignor) to another party (the assignee).

Assignment Law

In legal terms, the meaning of an assignment is a contractual obligation to transfer a property title or right from one party to another. Generally, the assignment is transferred based on an entire interest in the property, chattel, estate, or other item assigned.

A grant is different from an assignment in that an assignment refers to the right to transfer the property. This is considered an intangible right. On the other hand, the grant is concerned about the physical transfer of property. This is a tangible right. For example, a payee can assign their rights to collect a note payment to a bank. 

The terms of the contract must be analyzed to determine if the right of assignment is prohibited. For example, a property owner may allow a lease to be assigned, ordinarily along with an assumption agreement, where the new tenant is now responsible for the payments and duties of the lease.

The holder of a trademark may transfer it, either by giving or selling their interest in the trademark to another party. This is referred to as an assignment. The party that receives the benefit is called the assignee. Once transferred, the assignee has the ability to exclude others from using their trademark.

In order for the assignment to be enforceable, it must be in writing and have the goodwill of the company attached to the mark. For an assignment to be effective, it must contain the fundamental aspects of a contract, such as:

• Parties with legal capacity
• Legality of object
• Consideration consent

A contract assignment occurs when a party assigns their contractual rights to a third party. The benefit the issuing party would have received from the contract is now assigned to the third party. The party appointing their rights is referred to as the assignor, while the party obtaining the rights is the assignee. Essentially, the assignor prefers that the assignee reverses roles and assumes the contractual rights and obligations as stated in the contract. Before this can occur, all parties to the original contract must be notified.

How Assignments Work

The specific language used in the contract will determine how the assignment plays out. For example , one contract may prohibit assignment, while another contract may require that all parties involved agree to it before proceeding. Remember, an assignment of contract does not necessarily alleviate an assignor from all liability. Many contracts include an assurance clause guaranteeing performance. In other words, the initial parties to the contract guarantee the assignee will achieve the desired goal.

When Assignments Will Not Be Enforced

The following situations indicate when an assignment of a contract is not enforced:

• The contract specifically prohibits assignment
• The assignment drastically changes the expected outcome
• The assignment is against public policy or illegal

Delegation vs. Assignment

Occasionally, one party in a contract will desire to pass on or delegate their responsibility to a third party without creating an assignment contract. Some duties are so specific in nature that they cannot be delegated. Adding a clause in the contract to prevent a party from delegating their responsibilities and duties is highly recommended.

Three Steps to Follow if You Want to Assign a Contract

There are three main steps to take if you're looking to assign a contract:

• Make sure the current contract does not contain an anti-assignment clause
• Officially execute the assignment by transferring the parties' obligations and rights
• Notify the obligor of the changes made

Once the obligor is notified, the assignor will effectively be relieved of liability.

Anti-Assignment Clauses

If you'd prefer not to allow the party you're doing business with to assign a contract, you may be able to prevent this from occurring by clearly stating anti-assignment clauses in the original contract. The three most common anti-assignment clauses are:

• Consent required for assignment
• Consent not needed for new owners or affiliates
• Consent not unreasonably withheld

Based on these three clauses, no party in the contract is allowed to delegate or assign any obligations or rights without prior written consent from the other parties. Any delegation or assignment in violation of this passage shall be deemed void. It is not possible to write an anti-assignment clause that goes against an assignment that is issued or ordered by a court.

If you need help with assignment law, you can  post your job  on UpCounsel's marketplace. UpCounsel accepts only the top 5 percent of lawyers to its site. Lawyers on UpCounsel come from law schools such as Harvard Law and Yale Law and average 14 years of legal experience, including work with or on behalf of companies like Google, Menlo Ventures, and Airbnb. 

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Definition of assignment

task , duty , job , chore , stint , assignment mean a piece of work to be done.

task implies work imposed by a person in authority or an employer or by circumstance.

duty implies an obligation to perform or responsibility for performance.

job applies to a piece of work voluntarily performed; it may sometimes suggest difficulty or importance.

chore implies a minor routine activity necessary for maintaining a household or farm.

stint implies a carefully allotted or measured quantity of assigned work or service.

assignment implies a definite limited task assigned by one in authority.

Examples of assignment in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'assignment.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

see assign entry 1

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing assignment

• self - assignment

Dictionary Entries Near assignment

Cite this entry.

“Assignment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/assignment. Accessed 15 May. 2024.

Legal Definition

Legal definition of assignment, more from merriam-webster on assignment.

Nglish: Translation of assignment for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of assignment for Arabic Speakers

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[ uh - sahyn -m uh nt ]

She completed the assignment and went on to other jobs.

Synonyms: job , obligation

He left for his assignment in the Middle East.

• an act of assigning; appointment.
• the transference of a right, interest, or title, or the instrument of transfer.
• a transference of property to assignees for the benefit of creditors.

/ əˈsaɪnmənt /

• something that has been assigned, such as a mission or task
• a position or post to which a person is assigned
• the act of assigning or state of being assigned

assignment of a lease

• the document effecting such a transfer
• the right, interest, or property transferred
• law (formerly) the transfer, esp by an insolvent debtor, of property in trust for the benefit of his creditors
• logic a function that associates specific values with each variable in a formal expression
• history a system (1789–1841) whereby a convict could become the unpaid servant of a freeman

Discover More

Other words from.

• misas·signment noun
• nonas·signment noun
• reas·signment noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of assignment 1

Synonym Study

Example sentences.

Yariel Valdés González and I faced these challenges while on assignment in South Florida and the Deep South from July 21-Aug.

They’re putting time into decoration just as they would in their physical classroom, and students can interact with the space by, say, clicking on a bookshelf to get a reading assignment.

For now, if the district moves to in-person learning, instruction in Carlsbad will take place on campus five days per week and students may engage in additional independent practices and other assignments at home.

The assignments must also respect the relationships between the elements in the group.

It’s very hard, by the way, to do real random assignment studies of couples therapy.

His most recent assignment was the 84th Precinct, at the Brooklyn end of the Brooklyn Bridge.

When Lewis was shipped off to Vietnam, his son was just three months old, and the timing of the assignment worried Lewis.

When Vial got that first assignment, she was just beginning her photography career, and Cirque du Soleil was only a few years old.

“For our winter issue, we gave ourselves one assignment: Break The Internet,” wrote Paper.

By the 1950s the rapid assignment of gender to an ambiguously gendered infant had become standard.

Consent to an assignment may be given by the president of the company, without formal vote by the directors.

A transfer by the lessee of the whole or a part of his interest for a part of the time is a sublease and not an assignment.

An assignment to one who has an insurable interest as relative, creditor and the like, is always valid.

When an assignment of it is made, the assignee may sue in his own name for rent accruing after the assignment.

In some states statutes forbid the assignment of such policies for the benefit of creditors.

Related Words

• appointment

No, the House didn't pass bill to 'outlaw' the New Testament | Fact check

The claim: House passed bill to outlaw the New Testament

A May 3 Facebook post ( direct link , archive link ) shows a screenshot of a headline that claims federal lawmakers took steps to ban a religious text central to Christianity.

"US Congress House Passes Bill to Outlaw New Testament," the headline reads. Below it is text that reads, "The US House of Representatives passed the Antisemitism Awareness Act, but concerns arise over its potential restriction on the biblical portrayal of Jesus' crucifixion."

The post's caption reads, "Remember, they don't want to you (sic) reading the Bible!"

The post was shared more than 100 times in a week.

More from the Fact-Check Team: How we pick and research claims | Email newsletter | Facebook page

Our rating: False

The bill referenced in the post would not outlaw the New Testament, according to multiple legal experts. Instead, it would require the Department of Education to use a certain definition of antisemitism when it enforces federal anti-discrimination laws on college campuses.

Bill defines antisemitism in federal anti-discrimination law

In early May, the House approved legislation that, if enacted, would expand the definition of antisemitism that the Department of Education uses when it investigates discrimination against Jews on college campuses. It passed with some bipartisan support amid a wave of protests on college campuses over Israel's war in Gaza. The bill's fate in the Senate is uncertain, the Associated Press reported.

The legislation, called the Antisemitism Awareness Act , would apply the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance 's definition of antisemitism to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 , which prohibits discrimination based on "race, color and national origin in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance." That includes all colleges and universities that receive federal funds.

In a post on X , formerly Twitter, Florida Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene said before the vote she wouldn't support the legislation, claiming it "could convict Christians of antisemitism for believing the Gospel that Jesus was handed over to Herod to be crucified by the Jews." Similarly, Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz said in an X post that “the Gospel itself would meet the definition of antisemitism under the terms of the bill.”

Fact check : House condemned pro-Palestinian slogan in resolution, did not ban it

But Richard Painter , a University of Minnesota law professor, told USA TODAY that the legislation "doesn't outlaw the New Testament at all," nor would it ban the religious text from federally funded institutions.

"You're not banning something, you're conditioning federal funds on something," Painter said. "That's different than banning it."

While certain passages of the New Testament could potentially be interpreted in ways that fit the bill's definition of antisemitism, "that doesn't mean the New Testament itself would meet the definition of antisemitism," Painter said.

Jason Mazzone , a law professor at the University of Illinois, said there is no plausible way to interpret the legislation as banning the New Testament, even in a higher education setting.

"Title VI has never been understood to require schools and other recipients of federal funding to remove or prohibit from campus books on the basis that they may contain offensive material," Mazzone said. "Nothing in the Antisemitism Awareness Act newly imposes such a requirement. And if it did, it would be a clear violation of the First Amendment."

There is only one reference to the New Testament in the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's definition of antisemitism – in this example : "Using the symbols and images associated with classic antisemitism (e.g., claims of Jews killing Jesus or blood libel) to characterize Israel or Israelis."

The Anti-Defamation League and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum both consider the claim that Jews killed Jesus to be an antisemitic myth used to justify violence against Jews for centuries. In 2011, Pope Benedict XVI wrote that there is no basis in scripture to support the claim that Jewish people as a whole were collectively responsible for Jesus' death, CBS News reported .

USA TODAY reached out to the social media user who shared the post for comment but did not immediately receive a response.

Our fact-check sources:

• Richard Painter , May 8, Phone interview with USA TODAY
• Jason Mazzone , May 9, Email exchange with USA TODAY
• Associated Press, May 1, House passes bill to expand definition of antisemitism amid growing campus protests over Gaza war
• The New York Times, May 2, Bill to Combat Antisemitism on Campuses Prompts Backlash From the Right
• Congress.gov, accessed May 10, H.R.6090 - Antisemitism Awareness Act of 2023
• International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, accessed May 10, Working definition of antisemitism
• Justice Department, accessed May 10, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964

Thank you for supporting our journalism. You can subscribe to our print edition, ad-free app or e-newspaper here .

USA TODAY is a verified signatory of the International Fact-Checking Network, which requires a demonstrated commitment to nonpartisanship, fairness and transparency. Our fact-check work is supported in part by a grant from Meta .

Primary tabs

Assignee is a person to whom a right is transferred by the person holding such rights under the transferred contract (the “assignor”).  The act of transferring is referred to as “ assigning ” or “ assignment ” and is a concept found in both  contract  and  property  law. 

Contract Law  

Under contract law, when one party assigns a contract, the assignment represents both: (1) a transfer of rights; and (2) a delegation of  duties .  For example, if A contracts with B to teach B guitar for $50, A can assign this contract to C.  Here, A has both: assigned A’s rights under the contract to receive the $50 to C, and delegated A’s  duty  to teach guitar to C.  In this example, A is the “assignor” because he/she assigns the contract to C. A is also the “primary obligor ,” meaning he/she will still be liable to B if C fails to teach B guitar. C is the “assignee,” since C is the party to whom A transfers the contract. C is also the “secondary obligor,” since he/she must perform the  obligations  to B. B is the ultimate recipient of the duty under the assignment, and is the “ obligee .”

There are a few notable rules regarding assignments under  contract  law.  First, if an individual has not yet secured the contract to perform duties to another, he/she cannot assign his/her future right to an assignee.  That is, if A has not yet contracted with B to teach B guitar, A cannot  assign  his/her rights to C.  Second, rights cannot be assigned when they materially change the obligor’s duty and rights.  Third, the primary  obligor  can sue the  assignee directly if the  assignee  does not perform the assigned duty. In guitar assignment example, if C does not teach B guitar, A can sue C for any liability that A incurs as a result of C’s failure to perform the assigned contract. Fourth, if the promised performance requires a rare genius or skill, then the primary obligor cannot assign the contract.  

Lastly, a related concept is  novation , which is when the secondary obligor substitutes and releases the primary obligor.  If  novation  occurs, then the primary obligor’s duties are extinguished under the contract. However,  novation  requires the obligee’s  consent . In the guitar example, if A, B, and C agree to novation, then A would not be liable if C fails to teach B guitar.

Property Law

Under  property  law, assignment typically arises in landlord-tenant situations.  For example, A might be renting from landlord B but wants C, a new tenant, to take over the lease.  In this scenario, A might be able to choose between  assigning  and  subleasing  the property to C.  If  assigning , A would be giving C the entire balance of the term, with no reversion to anyone. If subleasing , A would be giving C for a limited period of the remaining term.  Significantly, under assignment, C would have  privity  of  estate  with the landlord, while under a sublease, C would not.

[Last updated in December of 2021 by the Wex Definitions Team ]

• business law
• landlord & tenant
• property & real estate law
• trusts, inheritances & estates
• wex definitions

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Social Security Matters

Social security to expand access to ssi program by updating definition of a public assistance household.

May 9, 2024 • By Jeffrey Buckner, Acting Deputy Commissioner for Communications

Last Updated: May 9, 2024

Under the final rule, beginning September 30, 2024, the agency will expand the definition of a public assistance household to include households receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) payments and households where not all members receive public assistance. The expanded definition will allow more people to qualify for SSI, increase some SSI recipients’ payment amounts, and reduce reporting burdens for individuals living in public assistance households.

The revised rule also changes the definition of a public assistance household when determining who in a household receives public assistance. The new rule defines a public assistance household as one that has both an SSI applicant or recipient, and at least one other household member who receives one or more of the listed means-tested public income-maintenance (PIM) payments (the any other definition). The previous policy required all household members to receive public assistance. This change benefits SSI recipients living in households where only some members receive public assistance.

“I’m committed to making systemic changes to help people access the critical benefits they need, including SSI,” said Martin O’Malley, Commissioner of Social Security.

“By simplifying our policies and including an additional program geared towards low-income families, such as the SNAP, we are removing significant barriers to accessing SSI. These changes promote greater equity in our programs.”

SNAP is the first PIM benefit added to the agency’s public assistance household definition since it was established in 1980. This change helps ensure the agency’s policies better represent the current landscape of means-tested programs in the United States.

These changes are key because, if an applicant or recipient is determined to be living in a public assistance household, the agency assumes they are not receiving assistance from other household members that would otherwise be counted as income. This will allow more people to qualify for SSI and in some cases, receive a higher SSI payment.

This regulation update is one of several that Social Security is publishing to improve the SSI program. The agency recently announced it will exclude the value of food from SSI benefit calculations. (Read Our Blog .) The agency also recently announced it will expand its rental subsidy exception, currently only in place for SSI applicants and recipients residing in seven States, as a nationwide policy. (Read Our Blog .)

Social Security continuously examines programmatic policy and makes regulatory and sub-regulatory changes as appropriate.

For more information on the SSI program, including who is eligible and how to apply, visit Supplemental Security Income (SSI) .

To read the final rule “Expand the Definition of a Public Assistance Household,” visit Federal Register: Expand the Definition of a Public Assistance Household .

Did you find this Information helpful?

Tags: Disability , General Information , SSI , supplemental security income

About the Author

Jeffrey Buckner, Acting Deputy Commissioner for Communications

Related articles, social security to expand ssi rental subsidy policy – agency continues to remove barriers to accessing ssi payments, social security to remove barriers to accessing ssi payments , social security publishes proposed rule for payroll information exchange to reduce improper payments, why it’s important to tell us about your financial accounts.

May 14, 2024 12:59PM

This new rule will help so many people who need the SSI income!! Even with HUD and food stamps (which also doesn’t count against SSI anymore) SSI is not much to live on and certainly not enough for a person to pay rent with unless they are rooming with other people. The Ticket to Work program also makes a huge difference with accessing a career after becoming disabled. Check out choosework.ssa.gov and my company My Employment Options for support.

May 15, 2024 9:34AM

Increasing nonworker recipients eligible for SSI will make Social Security deplete it’s funds more rapidly and is not fair to those older individuals who worked and have paid into the system.

May 13, 2024 9:14AM

In 2015, Norfolk VA. Biased judge denied Over whelming Medical evidence because of Criminal conviction, Ignoring work History and eligibility Credits. With heavily prejudice Statement of keep Reading You’ll See him for what He is-Con-Man. Federal Courts, and local Lawyer’s,No justice.Sentenced to life of Poverty- SSI

May 9, 2024 6:12PM

I’m writing this email because I have very serious concerns about my recent denial for disability, concerning a misinformation case stating back to 12/31/2006. The decision was based on the lack of medical records and the severity of my symptoms going back to my last insured date. The reason there is no medical records is because of the delay in getting this case reopened, and y’all realizing a mistake had been made. Medical facilities are only required to keep records 10 years, had this case been handled properly without misinformation this would not been an issuea Because the records were there to prove it or I could have been sent to a medical professional of y’all’s choosing to prove my disabilities and the severity. There was mention of a long period of time without medical care which is a false statement considering there is medical records from seven doctors that are missing from that time frame, Dr Early, Dr Rop ,Dr zortea, Dr McElhaney ,Dr Wood, Dr Fleming and Dr Dickerson. So I ask you how am I supposed to get a fair hearing? I didn’t go to all these doctors just for the fun of it. I’m also asking why am I being punished for y’all’s mistakes? Do y’all think I’m just making up these symptoms? Trust me I’d much rather be working, I can make a whole lot more than what little bit I’m going to get for my disability. I expect someone to call me about this and explain to me how this can happen. Y’all use the rule of law to deny people but what’s the rule of law say about giving people misinformation? This case should have been approved with special consideration that y’all dropped the ball and made the mistake. I recently called the appeals council and they said it can take up to 18 months have I not suffered enough have y’all not punished me enough for y’all this mistakes “this is a formal request” for an email list of the top executives including commissioner O’Malley’s email so I can contact them personally and make them aware of this situation I’m tired of being a victim of the SSA

May 10, 2024 1:04PM

I am Suzanne Tayon. I get SSA, that’s it. The people who have the way and yes more food, rent, electric and rent. I don’t have any money (SSA). I pay my bills and when I pay up to them, it doesn’t happen. I believe all in accounts. Thank you.

May 10, 2024 1:14PM

I’m on the HUD house. It’s been a year and nothing. I finally know that I’m 64 sick, and the people helping me should let them get help. I finally show I’m 15 when on, the list.

May 11, 2024 9:02AM

Warch out for the judge too cause the judge who did mine said mental n physical could be fixed my spine is deterating n he said mental could be fixed

May 11, 2024 10:51PM

Go Get you a Lawyer And Get your Check Stared That’s what i did and i have been on SSI ever since 2003 Trust me It took me 3 months before i was approve but first i was turned down by Bailtmore MD

May 13, 2024 3:19PM

We’re sorry to hear about your situation, Tim. You can mail correspondence to Commissioner Martin J. O’Malley at the mailing address shown here . We hope this helps.  

May 14, 2024 4:20PM

I am writing this email because I do need financial help. I am 71 years old and I only take him about $1350 a month in Social Security benefits. I am not working. I have a $1780 mortgage every 30 days and I have the other household bills that need to be paid. Help me, I need more income. My email is, WISE [email protected] . My name is Stanley Gregory Wise Wise. My phone number is 404-483-5025. If no answer, please leave a message. Thank you. I look forward to hearing from you. PS

May 9, 2024 6:05PM

Please clarify what this new policy means. What income limits does this rule set for persons older than 65? What percentage of the poverty level? Is there a chart for household size and income? How are retirement Social Security benefits considered in calculating the income? More specific information would help before putting this out on social media. Does this mean that any age 65+ person getting retirement Social Security and no other income and below the SNAP eligibility ceiling can apply and get SSI? What are the asset limits? Does this also mean that any time people do part time, temporary work, they can lose the SSI benefit and then have to reapply when the job ends? Also, is this administered by the Social Security administration directly or by the state’s department of social services, since SNAP is administered by states and not directly by the federal government.

May 9, 2024 2:28PM

Social Security already says it will run out of funding in 2034, so you find ways to cheat folks who have paid into the system by giving money to those that have never paid into the system. Incredible! Why don’t you send all 8 billion people checks, too! Then you could hire more bureaucrats who will always vote for bigger Government! It is only charity when you give away YOUR money, it is thievery when you give away own money.

May 9, 2024 2:35PM

Very well said, John L! Very well said. It is all about socializing us and destroying us.

May 9, 2024 7:16PM

Agreed…. What bullcrap!

May 10, 2024 6:23AM

May 11, 2024 2:40AM

My sister paid into the system for years and has been denied disability and SSI. Just because someone is low income doesn’t mean they’ve never paid into the system. Some folks don’t qualify for SSDI for whatever reason and need SSI. Just because someone doesn’t have Social Security Disability doesn’t mean they’re some drain on the economy just because they aren’t currently working. My sister has a brain injury and can’t even cook without supervision. She used to be a diesel mechanic and was going to college, singing opera in eleven languages, and working to become a music therapist. While working three jobs. Now she cannot even work one job and was denied disability because she kept a blog about her brain injury and the judge figured if she could write a blog she could work. She’d love to. So if she is allowed to get SSI based on these new rules she’s a thief? Tell me you’re stuck up and privileged without telling me you’re stuck up and privileged.

May 11, 2024 8:00PM

OMG! We need desperately to vote these clowns out of office. They are bankrupting all of our services per the Cloward-Piven strategy. They are taking down our oasis from tyranny in the world. I just cannot believe how strident and smug they continue to be. Vote for freedom and liberty from the oppressive state on November fifth!

May 12, 2024 11:51PM

Yes Vote and Vote Blue both locally and nationally. Our Democratic Republic is on the line.. It’s either a Free Democrat Republic or Theocratic Fascist Regime..

May 11, 2024 9:23PM

Well said. I retired five years ago after paying into the system for 40 yrs. I hope I live long enough to collect the amount of social security money that I and my company paid into the system.

May 13, 2024 8:52AM

Totally agree with you John. This is utterly ridiculous!

May 9, 2024 1:46PM

most SNAP benefit folks are way overweight which should be considered, There should be no water, chips and snacks allowed. Weight restrictions should be applied (if you are a woman 5’6″ you only get benefits if you weigh120 or less). Meat, bread, vegetables,fruit, milk and Cheese only.

May 9, 2024 2:30PM

Your definition woukd exclude many anorexic females and is not a healthy guide.

I most certainly agree with you, Karen P!

Christina L.

May 9, 2024 2:52PM

Overweight, or obesity is a disability.

May 9, 2024 5:38PM

This is by far the most ridiculous comment of pure ignorance I have ever heard. I currently am 46 years old with a 10 year old daughter in which we both just got out of a serious domestic relationship I have crippling arthritis along with numerous other health issues iam overweight and get snap I have no family no help from no one no child support and food in general is considered a privilege to us as we don’t get to eat but about two weeks of every month on our snap benefits and that’s buys the cheapest things that will last the longest haha to being able to Afford healthy foods when we can barely survive on romaine noodles and peanut butter and bread all month. Until you have lived my life or walked in my shoes don’t judge me cause on judgment day God ain’t gonna ask you about my sins he is gonna ask you about yours .

Concerned a.

May 9, 2024 5:41PM

Most SNAP RECIPIENTS ARE THE WORKING POOR! And you don’t get to tell people what they can or cannot buy! Water? You have got to be kidding me! When people in some areas of this country plumbing systems are old and that’s not their fault!!! Eating snacks is not a privilege limited to “WELL TO DO (Rich)”.

May 10, 2024 3:34PM

You’re certainly well-named, Karen.

That’s a very privileged and judgmental attitude you have there, with I’m sure ZERO experience of having been working poor.

May 12, 2024 1:09PM

Regardless of how overweight they may be, whi are you to tell somebody that shit, Thank God you don’t have to depend on foodstamp, for having that type of attitude God will strip you of everything you have, just to make an example out of you.

May 13, 2024 12:57PM

Lmao get out of here R u serious lol

May 9, 2024 1:45PM

I’m a care taker I retired at at 62 receiving lowest amount I feel I’m being punished for working all those years 51 years and having to retire early again worked for 51 years every year started paying taxes at 16 years old and now going on 63 my wife has AML we need financial help and she is getting Disability at Lowest payment amount also received Snap for one month and now they are canceling our SNAP we need help because the cost of everything is sky rocketing I know I sound like I’m crying but I am – is there anyone that can help us .

May 9, 2024 3:38PM

ou do not pay tax until your 18!

May 11, 2024 2:42AM

I started working at 16 in the 90s and I paid taxes on my income. What are you talking about? They took it right out of my paycheck the same way they did after I was 18.

May 12, 2024 11:55PM

I sympathize with your situation. SS they talked big, like they really wants to help.But they don’t. When COVID hit. Nobody wants to work so I had take on extra shifts, I made $23,000. That years. I only allowed to $19,000. Ish but they penalized me $15,000. I’m sorry that happened to you. I wish you nothing but BEST

May 10, 2024 9:09AM

BLAZ. I do not know in what state you guys live, but I believe what I am about to suggest is available in all states.

There are other government and none government assistance programs out there for people in your situation or similar. A big organization that could help is:

http://www.211.org/about-us/your-local-211

If you enter that web address into your web browser, it will take you to a page where you can enter your zip code to find out what agency can help you with your situation.

You can also dial 211 On your cellphone and you will get an operator on the line to whom you can tell your situation and they will provide you with the nearest place to receive the help you need for free.

This is a place where you can receive help with many things such as Health services, Food, help paying for utilities like the electric bill and water bill or telephone, it can also help pay for rent. It all depends on your needs an situation but they can help. Give them a try please.

It is a national service and It is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week. I have use it here in the state of Florida and it was of great help. I hope this helps you and pray God will bless you and guide you all….

May 12, 2024 1:11PM

They only go back 10 years of your work history, it is what it is. I Thank God For that

May 9, 2024 12:46PM

Here is a scenario I know that will now be protected. Guy knocks up chick, she has twin boys. Mom jumps in low income $75 month housing. Doesn’t work, stays home, guy moves in and they don’t get married. Lives basically rent free rest of their life. Oh and the housing gets new carpet, painting, appliances and they have a maintenance person who takes care of any problems at their beckon call. Scam 101.

May 9, 2024 2:37PM

Yep, you nailed it, Cheryl D!

May 12, 2024 12:08AM

You sure know a lot about scamming, Cher.

May 12, 2024 10:27AM

Wow, birth control must be a bad word in that household of the chick who pumped out twins. What’s happened to people! If you can’t take care of yourself, why on earth would a sexually active person not use some protection? Sometimes pregnancies only compound poverty.

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1,200 Jewish professors call on Senate to reject controversial antisemitism definition

People carrying signs during a Unity March against antisemitism in San Francisco in March. (Photo by Levi Meir Clancy/Creative Commons)

Some 1,200 Jewish university professors have signed a statement rejecting a controversial antisemitism definition that the US Senate is considering codifying in federal law.

The professors’ statement reads: “Criticism of the state of Israel, the Israeli government, policies of the Israeli government, or Zionist ideology is not — in and of itself — antisemitic.”

Meanwhile, as many as 40 states have either enshrined the controversial definition into state law or adopted it by resolution. Across the world, 35 countries have adopted it.

The professors say that in an attempt to silence criticism of Israel, the act would violate free speech, trample over academic freedom, and undermine Jewish safety.

Feingold, who has been tracking laws passed by Republican-dominated state governments that make it unlawful to discuss racism, sexual orientation, or the full history of the United States, sees the Antisemitism Awareness Act as part of a larger attack on academic freedom, First Amendment rights, and diversity and inclusion initiatives.

“The same politicians and right-wing activists who are rhetorically centering antisemitism as a sensible concern are at the same time actively undermining the civil rights infrastructure within our universities,” he said.

Those attacks on civil society and free speech include the aggressive police crackdown on campus encampments in the past month, the arrests and suspensions of Jewish students and other activists, and the cancellation of graduation ceremonies.

The 1,200 Jewish professors in their statement explicitly refer to this and another definition, the Nexus Document , as better alternatives.

“By stifling criticism of Israel, the IHRA definition hardens the dangerous notion that Jewish identity is inextricably linked to every decision of Israel’s government,” the professors’ statement says. “Far from combating antisemitism, this dynamic promises to amplify the real threats Jewish Americans already face.” —Religion News Service

Yonat Shimron

Yonat Shimron is a national reporter and senior editor at Religion News Service.

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North Carolina may join other states in codifying antisemitism definition

A bipartisan group of North Carolina lawmakers has approved a bill codifying a definition of antisemitism into law

RALEIGH, N.C. -- A bill seeking to officially define antisemitism in state law swiftly moved through the North Carolina House on Wednesday amid heated nationwide campus protests over the Israel-Hamas War.

A nearly unanimous House passed the SHALOM Act, a week after the U.S. House voted to codify the same antisemitism definition into the Civil Rights Act of 1964. But despite mostly bipartisan support, some groups in North Carolina have voiced concern that the bill could thwart criticism of Israel's actions in the war.

After clearing the House chamber in one day, the bill awaits approval by the state Senate before going to Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper, who has not said publicly if he'll sign it. Senate leader Phil Berger, a Republican, said last week he was open to giving the bill a hearing.

The act adopts the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's definition of antisemitism, which is outlined as “a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews.”

It also includes several examples of antisemitism, such as the denial of Jewish people's right to self-determination and applying double standards to Israel's actions. Those examples have been the focus of concerns that the bill could hinder speech critical of Israel.

Aside from guiding education, the IHRA definition could also help law enforcement agencies and local prosecutors determine whether someone should be charged under hate crime laws already on the books, said Republican House Speaker Tim Moore, the primary bill sponsor who is running for Congress this fall. Those laws make it a crime to assault someone or deface property because of race, religion or nationality, and increase punishments for other crimes when committed based on similar types of bias.

Moore told reporters that the measure has been in the works for months since Hamas militants attacked Israel on Oct. 7, killing about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and sparking a war that has left more than 34,000 Palestinians dead, according to Gaza health officials.

But he said it’s taken on more urgency since the recent pro-Palestinian protests on North Carolina college campuses — especially at UNC-Chapel Hill — that have led to some violence and dozens of arrests. Moore said comments made by some demonstrators crossed the line and should be deemed as hateful and antisemitic.

“We have to deal with this, we have to be very clear: This will not be tolerated,” Moore said during floor debate in the House, which began its session two weeks ago Wednesday.

The push to define antisemitism in state laws across the country predates the October attacks. Since last year, bills with definitions have been signed into law in Arkansas, Georgia and South Dakota. One was vetoed by Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb, who said he was concerned that people could be punished for criticizing Israel. Holcomb did sign a proclamation condemning antisemitism. Bills have been sent to the governors but not signed in Florida and South Carolina.

Some Jewish organizations joined Moore in expressing support for the measure before the vote.

“Jewish citizens in North Carolina deserve to feel safe and secure in visibly Jewish and public spaces,” said Greensboro Jewish Federation CEO Glenda Bernhardt. “We need a clear and agreed-upon definition of antisemitism so school administrators, law enforcement officers and public officials know how to respond appropriately.”

Bernhardt said there has been an increase in antisemitic incidents in North Carolina recently, including the bullying of Jewish students, harassment of Jewish-owned small businesses and graffiti on a Holocaust memorial in Greensboro.

Democrats in the legislature broadly supported the bill, including Rep. Caleb Rudow, who is Jewish. As someone who has experienced antisemitism himself, he said the act would keep Jewish people safe while still allowing political dissent.

Four Democrats voted against the bill, expressing concern that it could stifle protesters' speech. They also said they were disappointed lawmakers didn't pass more expansive hate crimes legislation.

Concerns over the SHALOM Act's impact on protests were echoed in a news conference held by a multifaith coalition before the vote. Abby Lublin, executive director of Carolina Jews for Justice, said the bill would “do nothing to protect Jewish people.” Instead, Lublin called it a “messaging bill” that lacked the ability to take serious action against antisemitism.

“We take antisemitism seriously, not as a political stunt or as an opportunity to repress liberties,” Lublin said. “It actually needs to be approached seriously with the rigor that it deserves.”

Lela Ali, co-founder of Muslim Women For, a grassroots organization created to advocate for Muslim women in North Carolina, added that the legislation could disproportionately impact Arab and Muslim communities protesting the war in Gaza.

Associated Press writer Geoff Mulvihill in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, contributed to this report.

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North Carolina may join other states in codifying antisemitism definition

North Carolina House Speaker Tim Moore explains his bill that seeks to define antisemitism at a press conference in the Legislative Building in Raleigh, N.C., on Wednesday, May 8, 2024. He said the bill would guide education in the state, in addition to how local prosecutors may evaluate antisemitic incidents. (AP Photo/Makiya Seminera)

Abby Lublin, the executive director of Carolina Jews for Justice, calls on lawmakers to vote no on the SHALOM Act outside of the Legislative Building in Raleigh, N.C., on Wednesday, May 8, 2024. The bill would add the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s definition of antisemitism to state statutes. (AP Photo/Makiya Seminera)

Greensboro Jewish Federation CEO Glenda Bernhardt voices her support for the SHALOM Act at a press conference in the Legislative Building in Raleigh, N.C., on Wednesday, May 8, 2024. She cited a rise in antisemitic incidents as a principal reason why the legislation was needed. (AP Photo/Makiya Seminera)

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RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — A bill seeking to officially define antisemitism in state law swiftly moved through the North Carolina House on Wednesday amid heated nationwide campus protests over the Israel-Hamas War .

A nearly unanimous House passed the SHALOM Act, a week after the U.S. House voted to codify the same antisemitism definition into the Civil Rights Act of 1964. But despite mostly bipartisan support, some groups in North Carolina have voiced concern that the bill could thwart criticism of Israel’s actions in the war.

After clearing the House chamber in one day, the bill awaits approval by the state Senate before going to Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper, who has not said publicly if he’ll sign it. Senate leader Phil Berger, a Republican, said last week he was open to giving the bill a hearing.

The act adopts the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s definition of antisemitism, which is outlined as “a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews.”

It also includes several examples of antisemitism, such as the denial of Jewish people’s right to self-determination and applying double standards to Israel’s actions. Those examples have been the focus of concerns that the bill could hinder speech critical of Israel.

Aside from guiding education, the IHRA definition could also help law enforcement agencies and local prosecutors determine whether someone should be charged under hate crime laws already on the books, said Republican House Speaker Tim Moore, the primary bill sponsor who is running for Congress this fall. Those laws make it a crime to assault someone or deface property because of race, religion or nationality, and increase punishments for other crimes when committed based on similar types of bias.

Moore told reporters that the measure has been in the works for months since Hamas militants attacked Israel on Oct. 7 , killing about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and sparking a war that has left more than 34,000 Palestinians dead, according to Gaza health officials.

But he said it’s taken on more urgency since the recent pro-Palestinian protests on North Carolina college campuses — especially at UNC-Chapel Hill — that have led to some violence and dozens of arrests. Moore said comments made by some demonstrators crossed the line and should be deemed as hateful and antisemitic.

“We have to deal with this, we have to be very clear: This will not be tolerated,” Moore said during floor debate in the House, which began its session two weeks ago Wednesday.

The push to define antisemitism in state laws across the country predates the October attacks. Since last year, bills with definitions have been signed into law in Arkansas, Georgia and South Dakota. One was vetoed by Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb , who said he was concerned that people could be punished for criticizing Israel. Holcomb did sign a proclamation condemning antisemitism. Bills have been sent to the governors but not signed in Florida and South Carolina.

Some Jewish organizations joined Moore in expressing support for the measure before the vote.

“Jewish citizens in North Carolina deserve to feel safe and secure in visibly Jewish and public spaces,” said Greensboro Jewish Federation CEO Glenda Bernhardt. “We need a clear and agreed-upon definition of antisemitism so school administrators, law enforcement officers and public officials know how to respond appropriately.”

Bernhardt said there has been an increase in antisemitic incidents in North Carolina recently, including the bullying of Jewish students, harassment of Jewish-owned small businesses and graffiti on a Holocaust memorial in Greensboro.

Democrats in the legislature broadly supported the bill, including Rep. Caleb Rudow, who is Jewish. As someone who has experienced antisemitism himself, he said the act would keep Jewish people safe while still allowing political dissent.

Four Democrats voted against the bill, expressing concern that it could stifle protesters’ speech. They also said they were disappointed lawmakers didn’t pass more expansive hate crimes legislation.

Concerns over the SHALOM Act’s impact on protests were echoed in a news conference held by a multifaith coalition before the vote. Abby Lublin, executive director of Carolina Jews for Justice, said the bill would “do nothing to protect Jewish people.” Instead, Lublin called it a “messaging bill” that lacked the ability to take serious action against antisemitism.

“We take antisemitism seriously, not as a political stunt or as an opportunity to repress liberties,” Lublin said. “It actually needs to be approached seriously with the rigor that it deserves.”

Lela Ali, co-founder of Muslim Women For, a grassroots organization created to advocate for Muslim women in North Carolina, added that the legislation could disproportionately impact Arab and Muslim communities protesting the war in Gaza.

Associated Press writer Geoff Mulvihill in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, contributed to this report.

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FDA Issues Final Guidance to Clarify “Remanufacturing” of Devices that Need Maintenance or Repair

FDA News Release

Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued final guidance to provide the medical device industry clarity on the definition of “remanufacturing” for reusable devices needing maintenance or repair. The final guidance seeks to ensure that there is consistency regarding what constitutes remanufacturing activities and to promote a better understanding of applicable federal law and regulations implicated by remanufacturing activities. The final guidance was issued following the agency’s extensive review of postmarket information and consideration of public comments, which highlighted the need for clarity, considering the different regulatory implications between “servicing” and “remanufacturing” of a medical device. 

“Today’s action represents an important step forward in our mission to assure continued patient access to high-quality, safe and effective medical devices,” said Jeff Shuren, M.D., J.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health. “This guidance provides important clarity on defining remanufacturing and helps to remove perceived barriers to obtaining repair or maintenance of a device if it does not alter the safety, performance or intended use.”

Many medical devices are reused; for instance, infant warmers, ventilators, endoscopes and defibrillators, and proper servicing is critical to the device’s continued performance and overall total product lifecycle. Additionally, many devices are complex and use varying technologies to be safe and effective for their intended use. Without access to information and resources to ensure proper servicing, unintentional remanufacturing, which may cause the device to be out of compliance with and in violation of federal law, can occur. Because of this, the FDA is advising in this guidance that devices include instructions necessary for proper device servicing, as well as providing examples of activities that constitute remanufacturing. 

Remanufacturing is the processing, conditioning, renovating, repackaging, restoring or any other act done to a finished device that significantly changes the finished device’s performance, safety specifications or intended use. Servicing is the repair and/or preventive or routine maintenance of one or more parts in a finished device, after distribution, for purposes of returning it to the safety and performance specifications established by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and to meet its original intended use. 

The FDA determines whether the specific tasks performed on the device constitute “remanufacturing” activities according to the authorities in the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and its implementing regulations, such as the quality system regulation , but not according to an entity’s self-identified designation as a “remanufacturer” or a “servicer.” Simply put, remanufacturing is when a significant alteration is made to a device’s performance, safety specifications or its intended use, changing the device from what was legally marketed as approved, cleared or authorized by the FDA. The final guidance sets forth guiding principles that the FDA recommends applying in the context of remanufacturing, a flowchart to help determine whether activities may be remanufacturing and examples that may be helpful to industry.

Additionally, the guidance recommends certain information be included in the labeling of reusable medical devices regarding their preventive maintenance and repair, including instructions on how to adequately return a device to its performance and safety specifications established by the OEM. The labeling recommendations do not encourage the disclosure of trade secrets or confidential commercial information. The FDA believes including this information should be considered an industry best practice going forward.

Third-party servicers are entities, other than the manufacturer or healthcare delivery organizations using the device, that maintain, restore, refurbish, repair or service a finished device after distribution, for purposes of returning it to the safety and performance specifications established by the OEM and to meet its original intended use. The agency continues to recognize the importance of stakeholders’ perspectives regarding the need for proper servicing that ensures quality, safe and effective devices remain available throughout their use life. 

The availability of timely, cost-effective, quality maintenance and repair of medical devices is critical, both to the successful functioning of the U.S. healthcare system and the public health. The FDA’s regulations and policies should not be considered an impediment to sharing information, tools and access to third-party servicers, as these policies are intended to help facilitate high-quality servicing by all entities engaged in these activities. 

The FDA began more closely examining remanufacturing and servicing and the impact of such activities on the quality, safety and continued effectiveness of devices, in 2016, when the agency opened a public docket and held a workshop to get public and industry input. Subsequently, the agency published a report, “ FDA Report on the Quality, Safety, and Effectiveness of Servicing of Medical Devices ,” which detailed the FDA’s plan to provide clarity on the distinction between remanufacturing and servicing that was consistently requested in public comments. Today’s guidance is an output of that report and the agency’s overall commitment to collaborating with industry to improve patient access and a continuing supply of safe and effective, high-quality medical devices.  

Related Information

• Federal Register Notice
• Public Workshop: Medical Device Servicing and Remanufacturing Activities, Dec. 2018
• FDA: Evaluating Whether Activities are Servicing or Remanufacturing

The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, radiation-emitting electronic products, and for regulating tobacco products.