“Indiana’s unborn could have been better protected starting today. While I am disappointed in the court’s decision and believe this is an issue of states’ rights, the remainder of the bill is intact and I am hopeful that the attorney general will vigorously appeal this ruling. In light of this recent action, we now have a greater duty to continue to be the voice for those unable to speak for themselves.”

STATEHOUSE (May 22, 2019) – Aspiring teacher Evan Lung from DeKalb High School was recently selected to receive the Next Generation Hoosier Educator Scholarship, according to State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn).

STATEHOUSE (April 15, 2019) – On My Way Pre-K applications for the 2019-20 school year are now available for DeKalb County 4-year-olds, according to State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn).

STATEHOUSE (April 9, 2019) – A DeKalb High School graduate is gaining experience as an intern with State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) and his fellow members of the Indiana House of Representatives during the 2019 legislative session.

STATEHOUSE (April 4, 2019) – Legislation co-authored by State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) prohibiting dismemberment abortions in Indiana recently was passed by the Senate and could soon become law.

STATEHOUSE (April 2, 2019) – The House of Representatives and Senate recently approved legislation sponsored by State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) in an effort to improve office-based opioid treatment centers.

STATEHOUSE (March 29, 2019) – The Widney-Carpenter Family Farm was recently recognized at the Statehouse for being in operation for over 150 years, according to State Sen. Dennis Kruse (R-Auburn) and State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn).

STATEHOUSE (March 22, 2019) – Legislation sponsored by State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) in an effort to improve office-based opioid treatment centers recently passed unanimously out of the House.

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 11, 2019) – “My family and I are deeply saddened by the loss of two lives as a result of a fire in Garrett. Our prayers go out to the families who lost a loved one and our thoughts are with them. We also pray for all others that were injured and affected by this tragedy. I want to thank all of the emergency responders for their efforts, without them there could have been further loss of life.”

STATEHOUSE (Dec. 21, 2018) – State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) encourages students who want to learn more about state government to participate in the Indiana House Page Program during the 2019 legislative session.

STATEHOUSE (Dec. 7, 2018) – State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) was recently reappointed to serve as chair of the House Public Policy Committee.

On Nov. 6, voters will have the opportunity to support a proposed constitutional amendment that would ensure Indiana continues to live within its means – just as Hoosiers do every day. If passed, the amendment would hold state government accountable by requiring the Indiana General Assembly to maintain an honestly balanced state budget.

STATEHOUSE (Oct. 16, 2018) – College students and recent graduates seeking an internship with the Indiana House of Representatives must submit their applications before the Oct. 31 deadline, according to State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn).

Note to the Press – State Reps. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) and Denny Zent (R-Angola) provided the following statements in response to concerns about the Michindoh Aquifer’s water supply. Smaltz reached out to the governor, Indiana’s Congressional delegation and other elected officials to help with this effort.

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 16, 2018) — Local family farms were recognized Friday at the Indiana State Fair for being in operation for 100 years or more, according to area lawmakers.

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 16, 2018) – Family farms from Allen County in operation for 100 years or more were recognized Friday at the Indiana State Fair, according to local legislators.

STATEHOUSE (July 6, 2018) — “I’m truly overwhelmed today with a sense of awe. Throughout this team’s journey, they’ve seized each opportunity and been rewarded with success every step of the way. Their efforts have inspired and strengthened our community.

“Basketball is part of our state’s sports heritage, and it’s fitting an Indiana team won the gold medal. This group has overcome obstacles, shown resiliency and excelled at the highest level of competition. The experience will serve them well moving forward.”

STATEHOUSE (June 21, 2018) — State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) was recently selected to chair the Interim Study Committee on Public Policy.

STATEHOUSE (June 13, 2018) — The Indiana Department of Education on Tuesday awarded DeKalb High School for student AP exam success during the 2016-2017 school year, according to State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn).

STATEHOUSE (May 2, 2018) — Elise Witmer from DeKalb County was selected to receive the Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship, according to State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn).

STATEHOUSE (April 12, 2018) — Local businesses on Wednesday at the Statehouse received the Governor’s Century and Half Century Business Awards for their contributions to the community, according to State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn).

STATEHOUSE (April 10, 2018) — Gov. Eric Holcomb  ceremonially signed into law on Friday, April 6, 2018, legislation sponsored by State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) requiring doctors and pharmacists to check Indiana’s Prescription Drug Monitoring Program database before prescribing or dispensing an opioid or benzodiazepine.

STATEHOUSE (April 2, 2018) – State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) recently welcomed student pages to the Statehouse.

STATEHOUSE (March 8, 2018) — Legislation sponsored by State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) requiring doctors and pharmacists to check Indiana’s Prescription Drug Monitoring Program database before prescribing or dispensing an opioid or benzodiazepine could soon become law.

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 28, 2018) — “Throughout this process, which included in-depth discussions during multiple meetings of our summer alcohol study committee, we made sure to build a consensus while working with all concerned individuals. We were mindful of striking a fair balance for all Hoosiers by removing the Sunday restriction, but setting a limited noon to 8 p.m. sales parameter.

“Partnering with Sen. Ron Alting to ensure the bill remained virtually free of amendments during the legislative process helped ensure its passage. I said earlier this year I’d try to tuck this football in tight and run it into the end zone. With today’s signing, we will now turn our attention to more pressing state issues.”

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 16, 2018) — A DeKalb High School graduate is gaining experience as an intern with State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) and his fellow members of the House of Representatives during the 2018 legislative session.

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 23, 2018) — The House of Representatives voted today in support of a proposal authored by State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) that would allow the sale of alcohol on Sundays in Indiana.

STATEHOUSE (Dec. 27, 2017) — Applications are open for students interested in participating in the 2018 Indiana House Page Program during the legislative session, according to State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn).

STATEHOUSE (Sept. 21, 2017) – Local communities will receive state matching grants to improve roads and bridges, according to State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn). More than $150 million was awarded to Indiana cities, towns and counties through the Community Crossings grant program, which is now in its second year. The grants are available through the

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 15, 2017) – New data released by the Indiana State Police indicates a 58 percent decline in statewide methamphetamine lab seizures so far this year, according to State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn). Indiana State Police reports 254 meth lab busts occurred from January through June, representing a 58 percent drop from the 605 incidents

STATEHOUSE (July 13, 2017) – “Due to increased fuel efficiency and the loss of buying power on the gasoline tax resulting from inflation, Indiana has recently seen funding shortfalls for its roads and bridges. Thanks to the long-term, responsible road funding package passed by the General Assembly this session, Hoosiers will begin to see

STATEHOUSE (July 7, 2017) — State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) was recently named to the Alcohol Code Revision Commission, which is tasked with reviewing and recommending changes to Indiana’s alcohol laws. Smaltz will also serve as vice chair of the Joint Committee on Judiciary and Public Policy and the Interim Study Committee on Public

STATEHOUSE (June 28, 2017) – DeKalb County is now eligible to participate in On My Way Pre-K, an early education pilot program established in 2014, according to State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn). Smaltz supported a bill during the 2017 session expanding Indiana’s pre-K pilot program from five to 20 counties and increasing funding by $10 million

Area lawmakers laced up their sneakers with their suits today at the Statehouse to help raise cancer awareness. State Reps. Greg Beumer (R-Modoc), Martin Carbaugh (R-Fort Wayne), Dave Heine (R-New Haven), Christopher Judy (R-Fort Wayne), Matt Lehman (R-Berne), Kevin Mahan (R-Hartford City), Bob Morris (R-Fort Wayne), Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) and Denny Zent

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 12, 2017) – Indiana State Police statistics indicate a 35 percent decline in statewide methamphetamine lab seizures during 2016, according to State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn). Indiana State Police reports 943 meth lab busts occurred in Indiana, representing a 35 percent drop from the 1,452 incidents in 2015. In addition, the number

STATEHOUSE (Nov. 23, 2016) – State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) will be serving as chair of the House Committee on Public Policy. Every session, legislative committees meet to gather public testimony, hear input from industry experts and collaborate with other lawmakers to discuss proposed legislation. “As chair of the Public Policy committee,

STATEHOUSE (Oct. 24, 2016) – Indiana State Police (ISP) statistics indicate statewide meth lab seizures have declined 36 percent during the third quarter of 2016, according to State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn). From July through September, ISP reports 209 meth lab busts occurred in Indiana, representing a 36.3 percent drop from the 328 incidents

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 25, 2016) — Local communities received state matching grants this week to improve roads and bridges, according to State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn). This year, Smaltz supported legislation establishing the state’s Community Crossings matching grant fund, which will provide about $160 million to Indiana cities, towns and counties

STATEHOUSE (June 23, 2016) – State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) will be serving as chair of the Interim Study Committee on Commerce and Economic Development, and will also serve on the Interim Study Committee on Public Policy. In preparation for the 2017 legislative session, which begins in January, interim study committee members meet to examine

STATEHOUSE (April 28, 2016) – State Rep. Ben Smaltz’s (R-Auburn) legislation to combat Indiana’s growing number of meth labs was signed into law today. Indiana has led the nation in meth lab seizures for the last three years, with more than 1,500 incidents in 2015 alone. “Many communities, particularly ours in northeast Indiana,

STATEHOUSE (March 11, 2016) – A bill sponsored by State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) to curb meth production in Indiana now moves to the governor’s desk. Indiana has led the nation in meth lab seizures for the last three years, with more than 1,500 incidents in 2015. In the same year, 323 children were found and removed from meth labs, where they

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 29, 2016) — The House of Representatives voted today in support of a proposal sponsored by State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) that would make it more difficult for criminals to manufacture meth. With more than 1,500 incidents in 2015, Indiana has led the nation in meth-lab seizures for three consecutive years. “This proposal

Property taxes are administered and collected by local governments, and serve as their primary source of funding. These funds are used to pay for a number of services, including police and fire departments, and also the construction and maintenance of buildings. There are number of ways counties can assess the value of a given property. The common approach

INDIANAPOLIS (Feb. 3, 2016) — Members of the House of Representatives voted today in support of State Rep. Ben Smaltz’s (R-Auburn) bill to combat the growing number of meth labs in Indiana. Pseudoephedrine is a key ingredient used in the production of meth and often found in a small number of cold, flu and allergy medications. If enacted, House

INDIANAPOLIS (Feb. 2, 2016) – The Indiana House of Representatives passed State Rep. Martin Carbaugh’s (R-Fort Wayne) bill to combat Indiana’s growing meth problem. If enacted, House Bill 1211, would allow meth manufacturers to be charged with a Level 4 or Level 6 felony when meth lab accidents cause property damage. “According to

INDIANAPOLIS (Feb. 1, 2016) — State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) recently welcomed the following student pages to the Statehouse: Alexus Bolding, from Ligonier, attends West Noble Middle School; Clayton Maurer, from Auburn, attends DeKalb Middle School; Courtney McHale, from Auburn, attends Garrett Middle School; Hailey Freeman, from Auburn, attends

INDIANAPOLIS (Jan. 27, 2016) — The House Public Health Committee passed State Rep. Ben Smaltz’s (R-Auburn) bill today to curb meth production in Indiana. Pseudoephedrine is a key ingredient used in the production of meth and often found in cold, flu and allergy medications. Under House Bill 1390, if an individual has a relationship on record

Indiana is on track to lead the nation in meth lab seizures for the third consecutive year. In 2014, Indiana State Police (ISP) reported 1,488 meth lab incidents, accounting for 16 percent of the national total. Over the past decade, there was a 234 percent increase in the amount of arrests in Indiana associated with meth labs. These are only a few of the

WHO: State Representative Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) Representatives from the Indiana Coalition Against Meth Making Meds (ICAMMM) WHAT: Press Conference WHEN: 10:00 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 16 WHERE: Indiana Statehouse (2nd Floor, south atrium) 200 W. Washington St. Indianapolis, IN 46204 WHY: Rep. Smaltz and representatives from ICAMMM will

STATEHOUSE — State Representative Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) was named Legislator of the Year by the Indiana Association of Cities and Towns (IACT). The award was presented during the 2015 IACT Annual Conference and Exhibition in French Lick. Founded in 1891, IACT is one of the oldest state municipal organizations in the country. With 470 cities and towns

As the long session starts to come to a close, I wanted to take a moment to update you about some bills I have moving through the chambers at the Statehouse. Currently, I have authored or sponsored six pieces of legislation that are making their way through the legislative process. At the beginning of this session, I set goals to help teachers cover the

STATEHOUSE — State Representative Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) congratulates three local families for receiving the Hoosier Homestead Award. The awards were presented by Lt. Gov. Sue Ellspermann at the Indiana Statehouse. The Hoosier Homestead Award Program recognizes farming families that have owned and operated the same farm for 100 years or more.

As a legislator, it is my job to recognize dangerous situations for all Hoosiers, but especially those who are least able to defend themselves. It’s also my job to support legislation that protects and better serves the at-risk and suffering in Indiana. It’s imperative that we take necessary and reasonable steps to protect our fellow men, women

STATEHOUSE—State Representative Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) authored legislation that would provide teachers with a tax credit for purchasing school supplies, up to $200. House Bill (HB) 1005, co-authored by State Reps. Martin Carbaugh (R-Fort Wayne) and Matt Ubelhor (R-Bloomfield) passed out of the House unanimously and has moved to the Senate. “It

Start Date: 6/27/2014 Start Time: 12:00 AMEnd Date: 6/27/2014STATEHOUSE - “I am looking forward to chairing the Interim Study Committee on Commerce and Economic Development. Summer study committees are a key component of the legislative process and the work accomplished by these committees helps lay the groundwork for the upcoming session. I am

Start Date: 4/3/2014 Start Time: 5:00 PMEnd Date: 4/3/2014 End Time: 5:00 PMSTATEHOUSE — State Representative Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) attended a bill signing ceremony for two bills addressing Indiana’s transportation needs. Governor Mike Pence signed House Enrolled Act (HEA) 1104 and HEA 1286 into law today at the Statehouse. Rep. Smaltz serves

Start Date: 3/14/2014 Start Time: 9:00 AMEnd Date: 3/14/2014 End Time: 9:00 AMIt is hard to believe I now have two legislative sessions under my belt. As a business owner, I supported the House Republican agenda that aimed to continue making Indiana an even more competitive business climate. In November, we outlined five key concepts of our agenda for the

Start Date: 2/20/2014 Start Time: 5:00 PMEnd Date: 2/20/2014 End Time: 5:00 PMSTATEHOUSE — State Representative Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) authored a House resolution honoring Terrin Thomas, the current reigning Miss Indiana from Auburn. Terrin’s parents, Joy and Guy Thomas, were also present for the resolution presented today in the House chamber.

Start Date: 1/23/2014 Start Time: 12:00 PMEnd Date: 1/23/2014 End Time: 12:00 PMSTATEHOUSE — State Representative Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) joined House legislators and staff in wearing sneakers at the Statehouse today in support of the Suits and Sneakers challenge to help raise awareness about cancer. The American Cancer Society’s Coaches vs.

Start Date: 1/14/2014 Start Time: 9:00 PMEnd Date: 1/14/2014 End Time: 9:00 PMRep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) issued the following statement in reaction to the governor’s State of the State address at the Statehouse. STATEHOUSE – “Tonight I had the opportunity to reflect on the legislative accomplishments of 2013 and hear Gov. Pence’s

Start Date: 6/21/2013 Start Time: 12:00 PMEnd Date: 6/21/2013 End Time: 12:00 PM STATEHOUSE— House Speaker Brian Bosma (R-Indianapolis) appointed State Representative Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) to serve on the following Joint Study Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Assessment and Solutions. “The work that will take place this summer

Start Date: 5/8/2013 Start Time: 8:00 AMEnd Date: 5/8/2013 End Time: 8:00 AM STATEHOUSE – The 2013 legislative session has finished. State Representative Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) is pleased to see three of his bills become law this session: House Enrolled Act (HEA) 1002, HEA 1579 and Senate Enrolled Act (SEA) 319. “I cannot believe how quickly my

Start Date: 4/27/2013 Start Time: 12:00 AMEnd Date: 4/27/2013 End Time: 11:59 PM STATEHOUSE - Speaker of the Indiana House of Representatives, Brian C. Bosma (R-Indianapolis), announced the end of session, or Sine Die on Friday evening, closing out a year of priorities achieved. The House Republican agenda, which was released in October, centered on making

Start Date: 4/15/2013 Start Time: 12:30 PMEnd Date: 4/15/2013 End Time: 12:30 PM STATEHOUSE — House Speaker Brian Bosma (R-Indianapolis) joined Governor Mike Pence as he signed House Bill (HB) 1002, the Indiana Career Council (ICC), into law. HB 1002 passed out of both the House and the Senate with unanimous votes, receiving unprecedented bipartisan

Start Date: 4/9/2013 Start Time: 11:00 AMEnd Date: 4/9/2013 End Time: 11:00 AM STATEHOUSE —State Representative Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) authored a House Resolution this week honoring the DeKalb High School Classic Connection Show Choir for winning the state championship. The DeKalb High School Classic Connection Show Choir took first place at the

Start Date: 3/22/2013 Start Time: 5:00 PMEnd Date: 3/22/2013 End Time: 5:00 PM STATEHOUSE – State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) congratulates the Cather family from DeKalb County for receiving the Hoosier Homestead Award. The award was presented today by Lt. Gov. Sue Ellspermann and Agriculture Director Gina Sheets at the Indiana Statehouse. The

Start Date: 2/12/2013 Start Time: 4:00 PMEnd Date: 2/12/2013 End Time: 4:00 PM STATEHOUSE — State Representative Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) along with House Speaker Brian C. Bosma (R-Indianapolis), Leader Scott Pelath (D-Michigan City) and State Representative Steve Braun (R-Zionsville) were joined by Brig. Gen. Brian R. Copes, Chief of the Joint Staff of

Start Date: 2/12/2013 Start Time: 5:00 PMEnd Date: 2/12/2013 End Time: 5:00 PM STATEHOUSE — Members of the General Assembly have joined forces in the fight against Hoosier hunger. Partnering with Feeding Indiana’s Hungry, lawmakers are working to raise awareness and assist with the state’s domestic hunger relief efforts through the month

Start Date: 2/6/2013 Start Time: 10:00 AMEnd Date: 2/6/2013 End Time: 10:00 AM STATEHOUSE —House Bill 1002, the Indiana Career Council (ICC), passed out of the Government and Regulatory Reform Committee today. House Speaker Brian C. Bosma (R-Indianapolis) presented an amendment that creates a strategic plan to improve Indiana’s education, job

Start Date: 1/29/2013 Start Time: 9:00 AMEnd Date: 1/29/2013 End Time: 9:00 AM STATEHOUSE – State Representative Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) and other House legislators and staff wore sneakers at the Statehouse today in support of the “Suits and Sneakers” challenge to promote awareness of the fight against cancer. According to the American

Start Date: 1/24/2013 Start Time: 4:00 PMEnd Date: 1/24/2013 End Time: 4:00 PM STATEHOUSE —In a rare joint announcement, House Speaker Brian C. Bosma (R-Indianapolis) and Minority Leader Scott Pelath (D-Michigan City) discussed a proposal embodied in House Bill 1002 which is designed to improve coordination, communication and vision for

Start Date: 1/17/2013 Start Time: 12:00 AMEnd Date: 1/17/2013 End Time: 11:59 PM STATEHOUSE — House Speaker Brian C. Bosma (R-Indianapolis) introduced legislation to create an Indiana Career Council, designed to coordinate between multiple participants in the state’s educational, job skills and career training systems. The Speaker has been

Start Date: 1/11/2013 Start Time: 12:00 PMEnd Date: 1/11/2013 End Time: 12:00 PMWith one week under my belt, it has been an exciting start to my time at the Statehouse. During the past several days I’ve had the opportunity to meet with constituents who have traveled to Indianapolis and discuss their issues one on one. I also sat down with outgoing

Start Date: 1/8/2013 Start Time: 2:30 PMEnd Date: 1/8/2013 End Time: 2:30 PM STATEHOUSE —State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) was honored yesterday at the DeKalb County Courthouse. At a joint meeting between the DeKalb County Council and the DeKalb County Commissioner, Rep. Smaltz was presented with a resolution honoring him for his hard work, service and

Start Date: 1/3/2013 Start Time: 9:00 AMEnd Date: 1/3/2013 End Time: 9:00 AM STATEHOUSE — State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) is encouraging local students to apply for the Indiana House Page Program. The program offers students 13 to 18 years old the chance to visit the Statehouse and see a full day of legislative activity. “Pages have a great

Start Date: 11/30/2012 Start Time: 4:00 PMEnd Date: 11/30/2012 End Time: 4:00 PM STATEHOUSE— House Speaker Brian C. Bosma (R-Indianapolis) announced committee assignments and leadership appointments for the Indiana House Republican Caucus. State Rep. Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) was appointed to three different House committees, including one vice

Start Date: 11/20/2012 Start Time: 4:00 PMEnd Date: 11/20/2012 End Time: 4:00 PMSTATEHOUSE –Indiana Legislators were sworn in today, Organization Day, which marks the first meeting for the 118th General Assembly. All 100 members of the House, including 19 new Republicans, were sworn in by Chief Justice Brent Dickson. “Just like a responsible

Start Date: 5/25/2012 Start Time: 12:00 AMEnd Date: 5/29/2012 End Time: MidnightMemorial Day is a time to honor those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for us to enjoy our freedom. Take time this Memorial Day to honor veterans by attending a local parade or community event. In Washington D.C., Congress enacted a resolution in 2000 declaring a "National

Start Date: 5/3/2012 Start Time: 2:00 PM End Date: 5/3/2012 End Time: 2:00 PM Teaching is one of the most important occupations that one could pursue. Teachers not only equip students with how to read and write but leave long lasting wisdom to help young people succeed in their academia, career and family lives. Next week, I want you to join in

Start Date: 4/19/2012 Start Time: 2:00 PMEnd Date: 4/19/2012STATEHOUSE— State Representative David Yarde (R-Garrett) congratulates East Noble School Corporation on becoming one of the first recipients of Indiana’s “Excellence in Performance Awards for Teachers” grant. Superintendent of Public Instruction Dr. Tony Bennett honored

Start Date: 3/22/2012 Start Time: 5:00 PMEnd Date: 3/22/2012 STATEHOUSE - Rep. David Yarde (R-Garrett) applauds Busche Enterprise Division’s jobs announcement made today in Albion. The announcement came as a result of Indiana’s Right to Work law which was passed this legislative session. “This is a welcome announcement to Northeast

Start Date: 3/19/2012 All DayEnd Date: 3/19/2012 STATEHOUSE – Dealing in or possessing synthetic drugs will see harsher penalties under new law. House Enrolled Act (HEA) 1196, co-authored by Rep. David Yarde (R-Garrett), prohibits dealing in or possessing synthetic drugs. The legislation was recently signed in to law. Many synthetic drugs are being

Start Date: 3/12/2012End Date: 3/12/2012STATEHOUSE— “Going into this legislative session, we focused on getting Hoosiers back to work. With the 2012 session now finished, I believe we have further strengthened Indiana’s job climate and created an economic atmosphere that will attract businesses to our state. This will bring jobs to

Start Date: 2/28/2012End Date: 2/28/2012 STATEHOUSE—State Representatives Dick Dodge (R-Pleasant Lake) and David Yarde (R-Garrett) honored Angola resident, Paul Oakes, with a resolution at the Statehouse for his efforts in bringing the Colts to Indianapolis. In 1977, Oakes was serving as the chairman of the Stadium Commission and was tasked with

Start Date: 2/23/2012End Date: 2/23/2012STATEHOUSE –The General Assembly is taking positive steps to combat the production of methamphetamine in Indiana. Rep. David Yarde’s (R-Garrett) co-authored legislation, House Bill (HB) 1196, aims to do just that. Rep. Yarde’s proposed legislation was passed out of the House and is now being heard

Start Date: 2/14/2012End Date: 2/14/2012 STATEHOUSE - Rep. David Yarde’s (R-Garrett) along with his colleagues in the Indiana House of Representatives took time today to honor members of the 2012 Super Bowl Host Committee and the City of Indianapolis for their efforts in hosting Super Bowl XLVI. The Super Bowl Host Committee served as the

Start Date: 1/27/2012End Date: 1/27/2012 STATEHOUSE - Rep. David Yarde’s (R-Garrett) co-authored bill, House Bill (HB) 1196, passed out of the House unanimously on Thursday with a 97-0 vote. The bill expands the definition of synthetic drugs to include a range of chemical compounds, including those known as “bath salts.” The bill will help

Start Date: 1/19/2012End Date: 1/19/2012STATEHOUSE— “The Democrats gave their word they would come to the House floor and begin bill discussions this week, yet they have refused and remain absent. It is responsible government to come together as a General Assembly, both Republicans and Democrats, to the House floor to discuss the legislation in

Start Date: 1/13/2012End Date: 1/13/2012 It has recently been brought to my attention that there are ongoing concerns regarding oversea military being able to vote in the upcoming elections. It is extremely important to me that all Hoosiers have their voices heard. I want to assure those in the active military that they will be able to register to vote, as

Start Date: 1/10/2012End Date: 1/10/2012STATEHOUSE - “It was an honor to be in attendance at Governor Daniels’ final State of the State address. I think what the Governor had to say reminded us of the fiscal solvency the state has seen, top rankings it has received and the fact that no taxes have been raised. The Governor’s address

Start Date: 1/4/2012End Date: 1/4/2012 STATEHOUSE – Rep. David Yarde (R-Garrett) and his House Republican colleagues came ready to get back to work today, however the majority of the House Democrats did not show up to do the work of the people. The majority of Democrats failed to attend the start of the 2012 legislative session, which prevented all

Start Date: 11/22/2011End Date: 11/22/2011STATEHOUSE —Members of the Indiana General Assembly, including State Rep. David Yarde (R-Garrett), returned to the Statehouse for Organization Day, a ceremony setting the tone for the upcoming legislative session. This year, Speaker Brian C. Bosma (R-Indianapolis) delivered a speech that addressed job

Start Date: 11/10/2011End Date: 11/10/2011The American flag is a symbol of freedom, honor and sacrifice. We use the flag at sporting events to sing our national anthem, in our schools as we pledge allegiance to our country, and throughout our neighborhoods displayed on the front porches of our homes. Our troops have made the freedom our flag represents a

Start Date: 10/21/2011End Date: 10/21/2011STATEHOUSE— State Representative David Yarde (R-Garrett) is encouraging local fourth graders to participate in an essay competition in conjunction with “Indiana Statehood Day,” a celebration of Indiana’s 195th birthday. The Indiana Statehouse Tour Office is sponsoring the competition.

Start Date: 10/5/2011End Date: 10/5/2011I recently attended the American Legislative Exchange Council’s (ALEC) 38th Annual Meeting to discuss issues facing our state and nation. I joined state legislators, policy experts, and private-sector leaders from across the country for the three-day conference in New Orleans, Lousiana. The conference is held

Start Date: 9/21/2011End Date: 9/21/2011 STATEHOUSE— State Rep. David Yarde (R-Garrett) is strongly encouraging college students and graduates interested in gaining professional experience and learning more about the legislative process to apply for this year’s internship program with the Indiana House of Representatives. “To be a part of

Start Date: 5/27/2011End Date: 5/27/2011Memorial Day stands as a time set aside to not only reflect on the freedoms our soldiers have sacrificed their lives for, but also a time to recognize our fellow Americans who are currently and continuing to serve our country as a whole. Our Nation’s history has been forged by the courage of those men and women

Start Date: 3/9/2011 All DayEnd Date: 3/9/2011 The lack of a quorum has cost the Hoosier taxpayers more than $250,000 and the cost is growing daily. Many essential bills are also at risk of dying such as a two-year balanced state budget with no tax increases, and some bills have already died such as one providing retired teachers with a cost of living

Start Date: 2/15/2011 All DayEnd Date: 2/15/2011 "Cell phone use while driving has caused a number of serious and fatal accidents across our state," said Rep. Yarde. "If you're behind the wheel and cause harm to someone else because you're distracted with a cell phone, you should face serious consequences." The House passed a bill earlier this session that

Start Date: 2/15/2011 All DayEnd Date: 2/15/2011 The legislation would lower the interior square footage requirements from at least 250,000 square feet to 25,000 square feet. It would also lower the vacancy threshold from 75 percent for two years to 50 percent for one year, and the years the facility must have been in service from 20 years to 15 years. The

Start Date: 11/23/2010 All DayEnd Date: 11/23/2010STATEHOUSE- House Republican Speaker Brian C. Bosma (R-Indianapolis) has announced committee appointments for the Indiana House Republican caucus. Committee chairmen and caucus leaders are selected biennially by the majority party after each election year. In 2011, Rep. Dave Yarde (R-Garrett) will serve on

Start Date: 11/16/2010 All DayEnd Date: 11/16/2010STATEHOUSE - Today marked Organization Day for the Indiana House of Representatives, a ceremonial day on which all 100 members-including 19 new State Representatives-were sworn in by Chief Justice Shepard. The newly elected Speaker of the House, Brian C. Bosma, pledged that he will do his duty and asks that

Start Date: 10/25/2010 All DayEnd Date: 10/25/2010STATEHOUSE- State Reps. Phyllis Pond (R-New Haven) and Dave Yarde (R-Garrett) will be attending the Spending Revolt Bus Tour and Rally. The tour bus' mission is to educate citizens about how current federal spending is jeopardizing America's future, engage them in taking action against this reckless

Start Date: 9/22/2010 All DayEnd Date: 9/22/2010The Indiana Statehouse Tour Office is sponsoring an essay competition in conjunction with "Indiana Statehood Day," a celebration of Indiana's 194th birthday. Winners will be honored at the Statehood Day Celebration taking place on Friday, December 10, 2010, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. at the Indiana Statehouse. I

Start Date: 9/21/2010 All DayEnd Date: 9/21/2010 This year's scores were determined by floor votes that the state legislators made on key small business issues. The NFIB identified and analyzed the vote totals on nine bills that had a direct effect on small businesses, including bills regarding issues such as:· Age discrimination·

Start Date: 9/17/2010 All DayEnd Date: 9/17/2010This year please note the following changes to turkey hunting season: Seven days has been added to the early archery portion of the fall turkey season a second (late) archery turkey season has been added to coincide with the late deer archery season (they are at the same time) the fall turkey firearms season

Start Date: 9/17/2010 All DayEnd Date: 9/17/2010 My House Republican colleagues and I do have a specific plan-we call it the 2011 Strengthen Indiana Plan-for weathering out this difficult economy. We have some real and concrete proposals which will 1) protect Hoosier taxpayers, 2) create Hoosier jobs and 3) expand educational opportunities, even in the

Start Date: 8/27/2010 All DayEnd Date: 8/27/2010th in the nation for our business tax and regulatory climate, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. But what most people don't realize is perhaps the most important side effect of our fiscal frugality: Indiana now has AAA Bond Credit Rating. Among other things, this means that the state's school

Start Date: 7/16/2010 All DayEnd Date: 7/16/2010Dear Friends, As a dad, I know how challenging it can be to keep your student's brain engaged over the summer! But as a teacher, I also know how important it is for developing and retaining crucial study skills. The big thing is to keep the kids engaged throughout the summer. That's the key word: engaged.

Start Date: 7/16/2010 All DayEnd Date: 7/16/2010 According to an article released by the Associated Press today, China is the largest foreign holder of Treasury securities. Now concerns are being raised that China could begin to shift money away from Treasury securities. It is expected that the shift could raise the cost of financing America's soaring

Start Date: 6/28/2010 All DayEnd Date: 6/28/2010Please insert the following into your coverage of today's Supreme Court decision on the government's inability to restrain gun rights. "Today, our 2nd Amendment rights were upheld by the Supreme Court. This decision will strike down gun ordinances all the way down to the local level if they prohibit law

Start Date: 6/8/2010 All DayEnd Date: 6/8/2010Dear Friends, The door-to-door phase of the 2010 census has begun. According to their findings compiled by the IU Kelley School of Business and the Indiana Department of Administration, the areas surrounding South Milford, Gravel Beach and Stroh are the only regions that have not yet reached a 70%

Start Date: 4/26/2010 All DayEnd Date: 4/26/2010You may remember hearing a few years ago about a horrific accident involving several students from Taylor University in Upland in which a truck accident resulted in a case of mistaken identity. On the evening of April 26, 2006, a truck driver who had been driving long past the number of hours allotted by

Start Date: 4/13/2010 All DayEnd Date: 4/13/2010Although newspapers are filled with grim economic news right now, there is a bright spot for the communities of Albion and Auburn, Indiana. Each community will receive about $350,000 from the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant competition. "As a teacher, I'm

Start Date: 4/1/2010 All DayEnd Date: 4/1/2010 Helping businesses, prompting job growth and providing relief to school districts were all goals that the Republican Caucus set for this legislative session. Thankfully, we accomplished them. By fostering a business-friendly atmosphere, we're not just encouraging business owners to hire back workers. We're also

Start Date: 3/31/2010 All DayEnd Date: 3/31/2010 State Representatives Dave Yarde (R-Garrett) and Matt Bell (R-Avilla) are proud to announce the recent scholastic achievements of two outstanding East Noble High students. Lauren Damerell, a senior, and Gabe Stephens, a junior, together earned a half dozen awards at the 2010

Start Date: 3/12/2010 All DayEnd Date: 3/12/2010Sine Die, or "Last Day," at the Indiana Statehouse. "We really reached across the aisle this year, especially in these last few days of session-in order to achieve positive changes for Hoosiers," said Rep. Yarde. "Employers and teachers can both breathe a little easier knowing what we accomplished." One

Start Date: 3/10/2010 All DayEnd Date: 3/10/2010 "Frequently I receive calls from constituents looking for opportunities to apply for state and federal grants," said Rep. Yarde. "As our community continues to look for ways to conserve energy (and money) this is a perfect opportunity for city and town officials to update local equipment and buildings to more

Start Date: 2/19/2010 All DayEnd Date: 2/19/2010Politically Speaking is a weekly program on WNIT public television focused on commentary regarding political and government issues. Rep. Yarde will appear on the show this Sunday, Feb. 21, at 2:00 p.m. He will be joined by Sen. Ed Charbonneau and Rep. Bill Friend. The legislators will talk live about the laws

Start Date: 2/11/2010 All DayEnd Date: 2/11/2010 Under the House Republican plan, each school would be allowed to transfer money into their general operating fund from other funds managed by the school (such as the transportation fund, technology fund, etc). Current law prohibits schools from using money in these other funds to pay for general school

Start Date: 1/26/2010 All DayEnd Date: 1/26/2010Rep. Yarde Contributes to Final House Version of Law STATEHOUSE-House Bill 1068, which will protect personal statistics about gun owners, passed the Indiana House today with an amendment from Rep. Dave Yarde (R-Garrett). The bill was introduced in response to recent actions by various newspapers across the

Start Date: 1/25/2010 All DayEnd Date: 1/25/2010Hoosiers Will Make Final Decision on Property Tax Caps House Joint Resolution 1 (HJR1), which would cap homeowner's property taxes at one percent of assessed value, rental and agricultural property at two percent of assessed value and business property at three percent of assessed value, passed through the

Start Date: 1/19/2010 All DayEnd Date: 1/19/2010"The governor's comments tonight were very realistic," said Rep. Yarde (R-Garrett). "This has by no means been an easy year for Indiana, but we are still in a much better position than many surrounding states. The key going forward will be to maintain a business-friendly atmosphere, which is already paying off

Start Date: 1/13/2010 All DayEnd Date: 1/13/2010STATEHOUSE- Parents and students across the state have been shocked in recent months to learn of cases of child exploitation at various high school athletic teams in Marion County.The headlines resulted in State Rep. Dave Yarde (R-Garrett) authoring and co-authoring several pieces of legislation this session

Start Date: 1/11/2010 All DayEnd Date: 1/11/2010STATEHOUSE- Representative Dave Yarde (R-Garrett) released the following statement today in response to the passage of House Joint Resolution (HJR) 1, the constitutional amendment to permanently cap homeowner's property taxes, and HB1001, a major ethics reform package. HJR1 passed the House by a vote of 97 to

Start Date: 1/7/2010 All DayEnd Date: 1/7/2010Power of Property Tax Caps Lies with the People STATEHOUSE-Constitutionally protected property tax caps passed a significant hurdle today in the House of Representatives, despite three amendments filed by House Democrats in an attempt to delay passage of the caps. The property tax caps constitutional amendment,

Start Date: 3/24/2009 All DayEnd Date: 3/24/2009STATEHOUSE (March 24, 2009) - Rep. David Yarde (R-Garrett) today joined the Indiana General Assembly in honoring the families of Indiana soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice defending their country, especially those fighting the war on terrorism. In a resolution, the Indiana General Assembly offered