WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The Taylor Force Act (TFA) became law today with the signature of President Donald Trump. The TFA will defund the Palestinian Authority (PA) until they cease and denounce funding and support for terrorists and their families for acts against Israel and the United States.

 The PA spent seven percent, or $358 million, of its total 2017 budget on payments to terrorists and their families. In 2016, it spent $322 million on terrorists’ stipends. Much of that aid comes from the United States — an average of $335 million annually over the last five years.

Each terrorist serving a three- to five-year sentence in an Israeli prison receives a monthly stipend equivalent to $580, the same as the average monthly salaries of Palestinians in the West Bank. Terrorists serving a life sentence receive a monthly stipend amounting to $2,900. Married terrorists receive an additional $87 a month, and those who are married with children receive an additional $14 per child a month. Terrorists who have Israeli citizenship receive an additional $144 a month.

Under the TFA, the PA will have to revoke any law, decree or document authorizing a compensation scheme for prisoners “that uses the sentence or period of incarceration to determine the level of compensation paid.” The secretary of state will also have to certify that the PA “has terminated payments for acts of terrorism against American and Israeli citizens after the attackers being fairly tried and who have been imprisoned for such acts of terrorism, including the family members of the convicted individuals.” The PA will also have to take “credible steps” against incitement to violence against Israelis and Americans.

“I applaud President Trump and Congress for defunding the Palestinian Authority advocacy and support of terrorism,” said Mat Staver, Chairman of Liberty Counsel, President of Christians in Defense of Israel, and Founder and President of Covenant Journey. “Thanks to President Trump who was willing to set the tone and do the right thing regarding terrorism. Prior Republican and Democratic presidents have continued to fund the Palestinian Authority even though they knew that our tax dollars were being used to promote and fund terrorism. As of today, that sad chapter has been closed and a new day has dawned,” said Staver.

Liberty Counsel is an international litigation, education, and policy organization. Liberty Counsel has a number of affiliated ministries, including Christians in Defense of Israel and Covenant Journey, a program that provides a life-changing experience in Israel for Christian college-age students who have leadership potential.