Stephen Bartels

STATEHOUSE (June 22, 2026) – Following the conclusion of the 2026 legislative session, State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) is highlighting new laws taking effect July 1.

STATEHOUSE (June 4, 2026) – The governor recently ceremonially signed into law a legislative effort supported by State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty)  to expand property tax relief for Indiana’s veterans, specifically those who have sustained total disabilities in service to the nation.

STATEHOUSE (May 4, 2026) – State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) was recently selected by Indiana Governor Mike Braun to serve as chair of the Indiana Defense Task Force. Bartels was appointment to the task force by House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers).

STATEHOUSE (April 23, 2026) – Gov. Mike Braun on Tuesday ceremonially signed into law legislation sponsored by State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) to boost public safety by establishing the Indiana State Police (ISP) as the statewide coordinating agency for counter-unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).

STATEHOUSE (April 13, 2026) – Area schools were recently recognized for achieving high literacy rates by the Indiana Department of Education, according to State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).

STATEHOUSE (April 8, 2026) – Spencer County students were recently welcomed to the Statehouse by State Rep. Steven Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Sen. Daryl Schmitt (R-Jasper).

STATEHOUSE (March 16, 2026) – Legislation authored by State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) to streamline government by consolidating Indiana's various boards and commission was recently signed into law.

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 14, 2026) – Recent legislation authored by State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) aims to reform dozens of state boards and commissions.

STATEHOUSE (Oct. 16, 2025) – State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) joined Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita, Gov. Mike Braun, and national security experts Tom Homan and Chad Wolf at Tuesday's Fairness for Hoosiers: The Need for State Action on Immigration briefing at the Statehouse in Indianapolis.

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 28, 2025) – State Representative Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) recently attended the White House State Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C. The conference was an opportunity for Indiana's elected officials and White House officials to foster collaboration and discuss the top issues affecting Hoosiers.

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 27, 2025) – State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Chris May (R-Bedford) are commending a historic increase in third grade literacy rates for Hoosier students following results from the 2024-2025 Indiana Reading Evaluation and Determination (IREAD) assessment.

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 15, 2025) – Dubois County farms were recently honored by the state with Hoosier Homestead awards, according to local lawmakers.

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 15, 2025) – Perry and Spencer County farms were recently honored by the state with Hoosier Homestead awards, according to State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and State Sen. Daryl Schmitt (R-Jasper).

STATEHOUSE (July 17, 2025) – State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) recently received appointments to serve on interim study committees, which will meet throughout the summer and fall to explore policy issues and work to identify solutions.

STATEHOUSE (May 16, 2025) – State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) commended the Indiana Department of Natural Resources for a new concession opportunity for the Wyandotte Cave State Recreation Area at O'Bannon State Park aimed at enhancing visitor experiences.

STATEHOUSE (May 16, 2025) – The 2025 legislative session ended with passage of the state's next two-year budget as well as tax relief and other key priorities for Hoosiers, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper).

STATEHOUSE (March 21, 2025) – Area legislators are recognizing the latest local recipients of the Hoosier Homestead Award, which recognizes farms owned and maintained by the same family for 100 years or more.

STATEHOUSE (March 10, 2025) – Indiana's Community Crossings Matching Grant Program awarded local communities over $2.5 million in state funding for local road and bridge projects, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Chris May (R-Bedford).

STATEHOUSE (March 10, 2025) – State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) will co-chair the Indiana General Assembly's defense caucus, which was recently reestablished to recognize and recommend opportunities to strengthen Indiana's defense sector.

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 10, 2025) – Applications are live for the Indiana House Page Program during the 2025 legislative session at the Statehouse in Indianapolis, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Chris May (R-Bedford). 

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 7, 2025) – Applications are live for the Indiana House Page Program during the 2025 legislative session at the Statehouse in Indianapolis, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper). 

STATEHOUSE (Dec. 23, 2024) – With the next legislative session quickly approaching, State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Chris May (R-Bedford) encourage Hoosiers to take their online surveys and offer feedback on important issues.

STATEHOUSE (Dec. 23, 2024) – With the next legislative session quickly approaching, State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) encourage Hoosiers to take their online surveys and offer feedback on important issues.

STATEHOUSE (Dec. 16, 2024) – State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) was recently reappointed to serve as chair of the House Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee.

STATEHOUSE (Dec. 16, 2024) – Southern Indiana legislators recently received appointments to serve on key House standing committees at the Statehouse.

STATEHOUSE (Dec. 16, 2024) – State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Chris May (R-Bedford) recently received appointments to serve on key House standing committees at the Statehouse.

STATEHOUSE (Dec. 16, 2024) – State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) recently received appointments to serve on key House standing committees at the Statehouse.

STATEHOUSE (Nov. 7, 2024) – Local communities will soon be on the move with more road and bridge projects with the help of recently released state funding, according to State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).

STATEHOUSE (Nov. 7, 2024) – State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) said local communities will soon be on the move with more road and bridge projects with the help of recently released state funding.

STATEHOUSE (Oct. 31, 2024) – State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Karen Engleman (R-Georgetown) along with other local lawmakers recently presented a Sagamore of the Wabash to Dr. John Click, a longtime dentist and community volunteer from Floyd County.

STATEHOUSE (Oct. 29, 2024) – Nominations are now being accepted for the state's first-ever award recognizing Hoosier first responders who are killed or seriously injured in an act of public service, thanks to legislation supported by local lawmakers.

STATEHOUSE (Oct. 28, 2024) – Nominations are now being accepted for the state's first-ever award recognizing Hoosier first responders who are killed or seriously injured in an act of public service, thanks to legislation co-authored by State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).

STATEHOUSE (Oct. 28, 2024) – Nominations are now being accepted for the state's first-ever award recognizing Hoosier first responders who are killed or seriously injured in an act of public service, thanks to legislation co-authored by State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and supported by State Rep. Chris May (R-Bedford).

STATEHOUSE (Oct. 28, 2024) – Nominations are now being accepted for the state's first-ever award recognizing Hoosier first responders who are killed or seriously injured in an act of public service, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper).

STATEHOUSE (Oct. 15, 2024) – The Oct. 31 deadline to apply for an Indiana House Republican internship during the 2025 legislative session is fast approaching, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Chris May (R-Bedford). 

STATEHOUSE (Oct. 15, 2024) – The Oct. 31 deadline to apply for an Indiana House Republican internship during the 2025 legislative session is fast approaching, according to State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).

STATEHOUSE (Oct. 15, 2024) – The Oct. 31 deadline to apply for an Indiana House Republican internship during the 2025 legislative session is fast approaching, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper). 

STATEHOUSE (Oct. 4, 2024) – State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) encourages Hoosiers to take advantage of a new state website to compare health care prices and quality.

STATEHOUSE (Oct. 4, 2024) – State Reps Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) encourage Hoosiers to take advantage of a new state website to compare health care prices and quality.

STATEHOUSE (Sept. 26, 2024) – State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Chris May (R-Bedford) encourage Hoosiers to take advantage of a new state website to compare health care prices and quality.

STATEHOUSE (Sept. 18, 2024) – Local schools recently received more than $450,000 for safety upgrades through the state's Secured School Safety Grant Program supported by area lawmakers.

STATEHOUSE (Sept. 12, 2024) – Dubois County schools recently received more than $192,000 for safety upgrades through the state's Secured School Safety Grant Program supported by State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper).

STATEHOUSE (Sept. 6, 2024) – Local schools received more than $279,000 for safety upgrades through the state's Secured School Safety Grant Program supported by State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty). 

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 26, 2024) – Applications to intern with Indiana House Republicans for the 2025 legislative session are now open, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper). 

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 26, 2024) – Applications to intern with Indiana House Republicans for the 2025 legislative session are now open, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Chris May (R-Bedford). 

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 26, 2024) – Applications to intern with Indiana House Republicans for the 2025 legislative session are now open, according to State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 22, 2024) – Indiana recently honored local farms owned and operated by the same family for at least 100 years with Hoosier Homestead awards, according to Dubois County legislators.

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 20, 2024) – State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) encourage families with students who have disabilities to apply for Indiana's Education Scholarship Account before the Sept. 1 deadline.

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 20, 2024) – State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) encourages families with students who have disabilities to apply for Indiana's Education Scholarship Account before the Sept. 1 deadline.

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 16, 2024) – Gov. Eric Holcomb on Thursday ceremonially signed into law legislation co-authored by State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) to launch a new public notification for missing and at-risk veterans. Additionally, the governor also ceremonially signed a law that Bartels sponsored to create and distribute veterans benefits and services posters for display in Hoosier businesses.

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 7, 2024) – State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Chris May (R-Bedford) encourage families with students who have disabilities to apply for Indiana's Education Scholarship Account before the Sept. 1 deadline.

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 7, 2024) – State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) encourages families with students who have disabilities to apply for Indiana's Education Scholarship Account before the Sept. 1 deadline.

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 7, 2024) – State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) encourage families with students who have disabilities to apply for Indiana's Education Scholarship Account before the Sept. 1 deadline.

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 6, 2024) – South Central Indiana lawmakers encourage families with students who have disabilities to apply for Indiana's Education Scholarship Account before the Sept. 1 deadline.

STATEHOUSE (July 10, 2024) – South Central Indiana legislators recently received appointments to serve on interim study committees, which will meet throughout the summer and fall to explore policy issues and work together to identify solutions.

STATEHOUSE (July 10, 2024) – State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Chris May (R-Bedford) recently received appointments to serve on interim study committees, which will meet throughout the summer and fall to explore policy issues and work together to identify solutions.

STATEHOUSE (June 28, 2024) – As summer kicks off in Indiana, State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Chris May (R-Bedford) want Hoosiers to know about a wide range of new state laws taking effect July 1.

STATEHOUSE (June 28, 2024) – As summer kicks off in Indiana, State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) want Hoosiers to know about a wide range of new state laws taking effect July 1.

STATEHOUSE (June 28, 2024) – As summer kicks off in Indiana, so do a wide range of new state laws starting July 1, according to State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).

STATEHOUSE (June 10, 2024) – State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) recently received the Disabled American Veterans' Legislator of the Year award for his work supporting Hoosier veterans and their families.

STATEHOUSE (April 16, 2024) – A new public notification similar to Indiana's Amber Alert will soon help first responders locate missing and at-risk veterans thanks to efforts supported by State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper).

STATEHOUSE (April 10, 2024) – Local communities can roll forward with road and bridge projects thanks to a recent boost in state funding supported by State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Chris May (R-Bedford).

STATEHOUSE (April 10, 2024) – Local communities can roll forward with road and bridge projects thanks to a recent boost in state funding supported by State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).

STATEHOUSE (April 10, 2024) – Dubois County communities can roll forward with road and bridge projects thanks to a recent boost in state funding supported by State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper).

STATEHOUSE (March 13, 2024) – State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) recently welcomed local students to the Statehouse where they participated in the Indiana House Page Program during the 2024 legislative session.

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 9, 2024) – "The U.S. southern border continues to be overrun by illegal immigrants and criminals bringing deadly drugs like fentanyl into our country. This is a serious issue that affects us all, and I'm pleased the governor is joining Texas and other states' efforts to address this national security issue. The Indiana National Guard will courageously represent us, and I wish them godspeed in this essential mission," said State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).

"The U.S. southern border continues to be overrun by illegal immigrants and criminals bringing deadly drugs like fentanyl into our country. This is a serious issue that affects us all, and I'm pleased the governor is joining Texas and other states' efforts to address this national security issue. The Indiana National Guard will courageously represent us, and I wish them godspeed in this essential mission."

Military veterans made tremendous sacrifices in the defense of our state and country. In turn, they deserve our support when they've completed their service and return to civilian life. As the new chair of the House Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee, I'm working on legislation that could help more Hoosier veterans in need.

With Indiana's lawmakers set to return to the Statehouse on Jan. 8 for the start of the 2024 legislative session, State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) released an online survey to gather constituents' feedback on important issues.

STATEHOUSE (Dec. 8, 2023) – With Indiana's lawmakers set to return to the Statehouse on Jan. 8 for the start of the 2024 legislative session, State Reps. Stephen Bartels (Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) released online surveys to gather constituents' feedback on important issues.

State funding is in route to Perry and Spencer counties to help complete road and bridge projects, according to State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).

STATEHOUSE (Nov. 8, 2023) – Significant state funding is in route to Dubois County communities to help complete road and bridge projects, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper).

State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) was recently appointed to serve as chair of the House Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee.

Several Dubois County schools recently received more than $229,000 through the state's Secured School Safety Grant Program, according to area lawmakers.

Several local schools recently received more than $186,000 through the state's Secured School Safety Grant Program, according to State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).

State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) encourages Hoosier voters to register or check their voting status by the Oct. 10 deadline.

Dubois County legislators encourage Hoosier voters to register or check their voting status by the Oct. 10 deadline.

STATEHOUSE (Sept. 19, 2023) – State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) encourages local high school students who want to pursue work-based learning and credentials outside the classroom to apply for the state's newly launched Career Scholarship Account program.

STATEHOUSE (Sept. 6, 2023) – Local lawmakers are seeking interns to join them at the Statehouse during the 2024 legislative session.

State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) is seeking interns to join him at the Statehouse during the 2024 legislative session.

Local lawmakers are seeking interns to join them at the Statehouse during the 2024 legislative session.  

Local lawmakers are seeking interns to join them at the Statehouse during the 2024 legislative session.

Local lawmakers are seeking interns to join them at the Statehouse during the 2024 legislative session.

State Rep. Stephen Bartels' (R-Eckerty) legislation to create a prescription drug donation repository program for Hoosiers in need is now law.

Dubois County farms owned and operated by the same family for at least 100 years were recently honored with Hoosier Homestead awards, according to area legislators.

State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) recently received an appointment to serve as vice chair of the Government Reform Task Force.

Hoosier military members are set to receive much-needed tax relief thanks to a new law co-authored by State Reps. Chris May (R-Bedford) and Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).

STATEHOUSE (July 14, 2023) – New state laws supporting Hoosiers and backed by local lawmakers during the 2023 legislative session are now in effect.

New state laws supporting Hoosiers and backed by State Reps. Chris May (R-Bedford) and Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) during the 2023 legislative session are now in effect.

New state laws supporting Hoosiers and backed by State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) during the 2023 legislative session are now in effect.

STATEHOUSE (July 13, 2023) – New state laws supporting Hoosiers and backed by State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) during the 2023 legislative session are now in effect.

The state's newly passed state budget prioritizes fiscal responsibility and focuses on what matters most to Hoosiers. We made strong investments in essential areas like education while also maintaining sensible reserves and providing relief to taxpayers.

State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) recently welcomed Riley Setser to the Statehouse where she participated in the Indiana House Page Program during the 2023 legislative session.

Local communities are set to receive over $4.3 million to complete much-needed road projects, according to State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).

STATEHOUSE (April 14, 2023) – Local Dubois County communities are set to receive over $1.7 million to complete much-needed road projects, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper).

Orange County is set to receive $1 million to complete much-needed road projects, according to State Reps. Chris May (R-Bedford) and Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).

State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) recently helped the Indiana Volunteer Firefighters Association honor Gentryville volunteer firefighter Carl A. Forston at the Statehouse for 50 years of service.

Public safety is always a priority for me as a state representative. Two bills headed to the governor's desk for consideration as new laws would make law enforcement officers' jobs safer and help public safety agencies respond to calls faster.

In 2022, the FBI sent a letter to all county sheriffs' offices in Missouri seeking to randomly audit their records on concealed carry handgun permit holders. The Missouri Attorney General responded with a letter to the bureau explaining that it's illegal under their state laws to share such confidential information with the federal government and ordered all the sheriffs not to comply with the request.

Whether renewing a driver's license, renting a campsite at a state park or running a small business, Hoosiers often connect with one of Indiana's state agencies for help. In fact, nearly 50 agencies operate in the state, each one playing a part in ensuring government is responsive, transparent and accountable to those we serve. As your state legislator, a top priority is to ensure our state government works for the people – and not the other way around.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services estimate that medications worth billions of dollars go unused annually. That's a tough pill to swallow when we know that so many Americans struggle to pay for costly, but necessary prescriptions. To help address this issue, I authored legislation to encourage the donation of unused prescription drugs, which could be safely dispensed to low-income Hoosiers in need.

Indiana's 2023 legislative session is underway, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue serving Hoosiers and supporting our local communities.

Local legislators recently received appointments to serve on key House standing committees at the Statehouse.

State Reps. Chris May (R-Bedford) and Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) recently received appointments to serve on key House standing committees at the Statehouse.

More than $2.7 million is headed to local communities to accelerate road and bridge improvements, according to local legislators.

STATEHOUSE (Sept. 12, 2022) – Dubois County legislators invite local college students and recent graduates of all majors to apply for a paid internship with Indiana House Republicans.

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 18, 2022) – Longstanding Dubois County farms recently received Hoosier Homestead awards for being in operation for 100 years or more, according to local lawmakers.

STATEHOUSE (July 12, 2022) – Dubois County lawmakers said Hoosiers should be aware of several new and notable state laws, which are now in effect.

STATEHOUSE (June 24, 2022) – Dubois County lawmakers said they plan to support further protections for the unborn and expanded resources for pregnant women in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade on Friday.

STATEHOUSE (June 24, 2022) – Dubois County lawmakers said they plan to support further protections for the unborn and expanded resources for pregnant women in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade on Friday.

 STATEHOUSE (May 24, 2022) – State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) today joined the majority of Indiana's lawmakers in successfully overriding the governor's veto of legislation protecting the integrity of girls' sports.

STATEHOUSE (April 21, 2022) –  Local communities will receive more than $1.3 million in state matching grants for road and bridge improvement projects, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Cindy Ledbetter (R-Newburgh).

STATEHOUSE (April 20, 2022) – Local communities will receive nearly $1.3 million in state matching grants for road and bridge improvement projects, according to State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).

STATEHOUSE (April 20, 2022) – Local communities will receive over $1.9 million in state matching grants for road and bridge improvement projects, according to Dubois County lawmakers.

STATEHOUSE (April 13, 2022) – Local lawmakers support overriding Gov. Eric Holcomb's veto of House Enrolled Act 1041, which they voted for to protect the integrity of girls' K-12 sports in Indiana.

STATEHOUSE (April 6, 2022) – Area legislators today announced the latest recipients of the Hoosier Homestead Award, which recognizes farms that have been owned and maintained by the same family for 100 years or more.

STATEHOUSE (April 6, 2022) – Area legislators today announced the latest recipients of the Hoosier Homestead Award, which recognizes farms that have been owned and maintained by the same family for 100 years or more.

STATEHOUSE (April 7, 2022) – A new law supported by State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) protects free speech at public colleges and universities throughout Indiana. 

STATEHOUSE (March 7, 2022) – A painting by an Evansville artist will soon be displayed at the Statehouse, according to Vanderburgh County lawmakers.   

STATEHOUSE (March 7, 2022) – Legislation sponsored by State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) to protect the privacy of young victims could soon become a law.

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 28, 2022) –  State Reps. Wendy McNamara (R-Evansville) and Tim O'Brien (R-Evansville) said they are looking forward to local communities tackling health challenges like diabetes and obesity through a new state grant they helped create.

Nurses are often stretched thin and work long hours, but they make incredible sacrifices to care for their patients. Hoosier nurses stepped up during the pandemic and were nothing short of heroic, and we need more – a lot more – of them across the state.  

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 11, 2022) – State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) this week at the Statehouse honored the Lincoln Amphitheatre for its 35^th anniversary serving up entertainment and education for Hoosiers in Spencer County and beyond.

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 3, 2022) – In the first half of the 2022 legislative session, area lawmakers voted to advance several key priorities, including a sweeping tax-cut package to help hardworking Hoosiers and businesses.

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 3, 2022) – State Reps. J. Michael Davisson (R-Salem) (top row, far left) and Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) (top row, far right) welcome local students from Orange, Jackson, Lawrence and Washington counties to the Statehouse on Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2022, in Indianapolis for 4-H Day.

Indiana House Republicans recently advanced a responsible and sweeping tax cut package that could put over $1.3 billion back in Hoosiers' pockets, according to State Reps. Chris May (R-Bedford) and Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty), supporters of House Bill 1002.

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 27, 2022) – The Indiana House of Representatives recently voted in support of legislation, co-authored by State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper), to help address jail overcrowding and boost local resources to fight crime.

Every day, human trafficking victims endure pain and trauma at the hands of their captors. The physical and emotional abuse can have long-lasting effects, and victims deserve justice and an opportunity to heal. 

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 20, 2022) — The Indiana House of Representatives voted unanimously in support of legislation co-authored by State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) to cut unnecessary government.

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 14, 2022) – State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) authored legislation to create a prescription drug recycling program in Indiana to reduce waste and provide Hoosiers with greater access to affordable medications.

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 10, 2022) – Legislation authored by State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) would help cut red tape for Hoosiers by limiting new rules created by state agencies.  

STATEHOUSE (Dec. 21, 2021) – Local House Republican lawmakers Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and J. Michael Davisson (R-Salem) invite constituents to complete the 2022 issue survey to provide feedback ahead of the legislative session starting Jan. 4.

STATEHOUSE (Dec. 17, 2021) – Communities across all 17 regions in Indiana will receive $500 million as part of a new, innovative state grant aimed at increasing quality of life and attracting top talent, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and J. Michael Davisson (R-Salem).

STATEHOUSE (Dec. 17, 2021) – Communities across all 17 regions in Indiana will receive $500 million as part of a new, innovative state grant aimed at increasing quality of life and attracting top talent, according to local lawmakers.

STATEHOUSE (Dec. 15, 2021) – Communities across all 17 regions in Indiana will receive $500 million as part of a new, innovative state grant aimed at increasing quality of life and attracting top talent, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper).

STATEHOUSE (Nov. 9 , 2021) — Nontraditional female students in Indiana can apply for a scholarship through the Political Organization for Women's Education and Representation before the Nov. 15 deadline, according Dubois County lawmakers.

STATEHOUSE (Nov. 3, 2021) – Local communities will receive more than $5.2 million in state matching grants to steer toward much-needed road improvement projects, according to State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).

DUBOIS COUNTY (Oct. 25, 2021) – State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) recently hosted a listening tour in Dubois County where they met and heard from constituents, local employers and law enforcement officers.

STATEHOUSE (Oct. 15, 2021) – Dubois County lawmakers encourage local college students and recent graduates to apply online for internships at the Indiana Statehouse before the Oct. 31 deadline.

Although written and ratified centuries ago, the U.S. Constitution remains a guiding force for lawmakers at all levels to both protect individual freedoms and guard against government overreach. President Joe Biden's recent call for vaccine mandates on businesses nationwide, and hefty fines for those that refuse to comply, shows blatant disregard for the U.S. Constitution and is an indefensible overreach.

As the leaves turn colors and temperatures drop, it's time to kick off one of Indiana's greatest outdoor traditions – deer hunting. More than 300,000 hunters will get out in nature and enjoy the season, which began in September and runs until Jan. 31, according to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.

STATEHOUSE (Sept. 22, 2021) – Huntingburg's Phyllis Menke was among 21 older Indiana residents honored with this year's Golden Hoosier Award for her volunteer service in the community, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper).

STATEHOUSE (Sept 9, 2021) – State Reps. Cindy Ledbetter (R-Newburgh) and Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) urge Hoosiers to join the thousands who are already taking advantage of Indiana's Next Level Jobs certificate program to skill up at no cost and obtain a higher-paying job.

STATEHOUSE (Sept. 7, 2021) – State Reps. Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) and Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) urge Hoosiers to join the thousands who are already taking advantage of Indiana's Next Level Jobs certificate program to skill up at no cost and obtain a higher-paying job.

College students throughout Indiana are heading back to campus, and while many will stay up all night studying, others will stay up all night partying.

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 20, 2021) – Longstanding Dubois County farms recently received Hoosier Homestead awards for being in operation for 100 years, according to local legislators.

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 13, 2021) — State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) announce the launching of an initiative designed to help attract, develop and connect Hoosier talent in southern Indiana.

With summer winding down and more college classes ramping up, many students will be searching for learning opportunities outside the classroom. An excellent way to earn real-world work experience and valuable skills is through an internship.

STATEHOUSE (July 30, 2021) — Nontraditional female students in Indiana can now apply for a scholarship through the Political Organization for Women's Education and Representation, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Cindy Ledbetter (R-Newburgh).

The best kind of government is a small, limited one that works for the people. This legislative session, we made historic investments in the state's priorities, paid down debt and prepared for a rainy day – all without growing government. Given our state's strong fiscal health and booming economy, we recently received news that Hoosiers will get an automatic taxpayer refund. In short, conservative Republican leadership continues to pay off for Indiana's citizens.

STATEHOUSE (July 29, 2021) – State Reps. Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) and Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) invite constituents to weigh in on Indiana's redistricting process during upcoming public meetings.

Note to the press: Please include the following statement from State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Cindy Ledbetter (R-Newburgh) in your coverage of Indiana Auditor of State Tera Klutz announcing the state will end the fiscal year with $1.1 billion more than expected in reserves, triggering an automatic taxpayer refund. 

While some states are attacking and hindering Americans' constitutional right to bear arms, Indiana lawmakers are working to remove barriers placed on lawful Hoosiers. A new law went into effect on July 1 waiving local and state fees for lifetime handgun carry licenses.

STATEHOUSE (July 7, 2021) – Spencer County legislators recently received appointments to serve on interim study committees.

STATEHOUSE (July 6, 2021) – State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) said Hoosiers should be aware of several new state laws effective July 1, including the new state budget and those supporting law enforcement, helping small businesses and protecting in-person worship.

Several local students are among this year's recipients of the state's Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Cindy Ledbetter (R-Newburgh).

Several local students preparing to become teachers are among this year's recipients of the state's Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper).

STATEHOUSE (June 2, 2021) – A local student preparing to become a teacher is among this year's recipients of the state's Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Steve Davisson (R-Salem).

As we come together this Memorial Day, I encourage all of us to make the holiday more than a welcoming of summer filled with barbeques and time on the lake. Let us come together to honor the true meaning of Memorial Day by recognizing the ultimate sacrifice thousands made as they defended our freedoms and gave their lives protecting our country.

Legislation supported by State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) protecting Hoosiers' right to gather for religious worship services during future public emergencies is now law.

Lawmakers have worked on numerous bills to help improve the lives of Hoosiers everywhere, especially in Southern Indiana. One of our main tasks this session included passing an honestly balanced, fiscally responsible budget that wisely invests taxpayer dollars. With increased revenue projections, our two-year budget reduces taxpayer-funded debt by over $1 billion, positions the state to make future tax cuts and reforms, and makes substantial investments in K-12 education and broadband expansion.

Indiana recently awarded more than $1.6 million in state matching grants to local communities for road and bridge improvements, according to local lawmakers.

STATEHOUSE (April 30, 2021) – Indiana recently awarded more than $1.1 million in state matching grants to Orange County and Orleans for road and bridge improvements, according to State Reps. Steve Davisson (R-Salem) and Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).

Hoosiers use technology every day to access resources, work, connect with others and even see their doctor. Over the past year, there has been an increase of telehealth services, as individuals stayed home to help slow the spread of the coronavirus. Indiana cut red tape last spring to allow providers to see patients virtually for certain conditions. In an effort to give our communities access to the health care they need, especially here in rural Indiana, I am supporting legislation that would make some of the temporary changes permanent and include more health care professionals.

STATEHOUSE (April 8, 2021) – Legislation to fully fund public school students attending school virtually this school year due to COVID-19 is now law, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Cindy Ledbetter (R-Newburgh).

Perry Central Junior-Senior High School graduate Tricia Esarey is gaining experience as an intern with State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and his fellow members of the Indiana House of Representatives during the 2021 legislative session.

Our servicemen and women make tremendous sacrifices for our country. When they leave the military, many need additional support to adjust to civilian life and find employment. To help these Hoosiers, I am working on legislation to meet their needs.

STATEHOUSE (March 17, 2021) – The Indiana House of Representatives recently advanced legislation to allow lawful carry in Indiana, which would allow law-abiding Hoosier adults to carry a firearm without having to first obtain a government-issued license, according to local legislators.

STATEHOUSE (March 16, 2021) – The Indiana House of Representatives recently advanced legislation to allow lawful carry in Indiana, which would allow law-abiding Hoosier adults to carry a firearm without having to first obtain a government-issued license, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper).

Inspiration for legislation comes from all sorts of places, and when I'm not working at the Statehouse, I am in our community speaking with local Hoosiers about issues important to them. Last summer, I had the opportunity to meet with a group of veterinarians to see how I could support them. One veterinarian brought up a state requirement for them to report controlled substance prescriptions each day even if their office is closed and no medications were dispensed. To address this unnecessary administrative burden, I drafted legislation to cut this red tape for all health care providers throughout the state.

STATEHOUSE (March 12, 2021) – A longstanding Orange County farm was recently presented a Hoosier Homestead Bicentennial Award for being in operation for 200 years, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Steve Davisson (R-Salem).

STATEHOUSE (March 5, 2021) – The Indiana House of Representatives recently advanced legislation to allow lawful carry in Indiana, which would allow law-abiding Hoosier adults to carry a firearm without having to first obtain a government-issued license, according to State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).

The 2021 session has reached the halfway point, meaning House bills are now being heard by the Senate, and the House is considering Senate bills. This session, I am working on legislation that would cut red tape for Hoosiers, specifically for small-business owners, local health care providers and law-abiding citizens.

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 19, 2021) – The Indiana House of Representatives recently voted in support of legislation establishing a new $50 million public health grant program, according to State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 18, 2021) – The Indiana House of Representatives voted on Tuesday in support of legislation establishing a new public health grant program, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Steve Davisson (R-Salem).

For some small-business owners who often make trips to small claims court, court costs and attorney fees can add up fast and sometimes outweigh the benefits of the claim itself. I am working on legislation to help remove a roadblock for business owners who may opt to represent themselves to help save money and time.

Now more than ever, families are investing in an Indiana CollegeChoice 529 Savings Plan to help their child pay for education and training after high school. This savings plan has traditionally been used to pay for college and technical school tuition. Fortunately, Hoosier families can now use these funds for qualified apprenticeship programs. The additional flexibility can provide even more young Hoosiers the opportunity to pursue their passion.

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 28, 2021) – The Indiana House of Representatives recently voted in support of legislation to fully fund all K-12 public school students for the 2020-21 school year, regardless of whether students attended classes in-person or virtually due to COVID-19, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Cindy Ledbetter (R-Newburgh).

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 28, 2021) – The Indiana House of Representatives recently voted in support of legislation to fully fund all K-12 public school students for the 2020-21 school year, regardless of whether students attended classes in-person or virtually due to COVID-19, according to State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 20, 2021) — Indiana Grown recently launched the Shop Indiana Grown online marketplace connecting Hoosiers directly to local vendors and products, according to State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Steve Davisson (R-Salem).

STATEHOUSE (Jan. 19, 2021) – The House Committee on Courts and Criminal Code unanimously voted to advance a bill co-authored by State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) supporting local law enforcement, and boosting accountability and transparency in policing.

Schools do a tremendous job protecting our students, implementing safety measures like security check points, requiring additional background checks for parents and hiring school resource officers. These are great preventative measures, but there's always room for improvement. This is why I proposed legislation that would allow school corporations, along with sheriff departments, to apply for funds to improve communication and response times for local and state agencies in the rare event of an emergency.

The town of Leavenworth recently received $211,068 in state matching grants for road and bridge improvements, according to State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty). 

Every session, my legislative priorities are based on constituent input. Throughout the year, I meet and speak with community members to hear what is on their mind, and right now, one of the easiest ways to weigh in is through my survey.

State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Steve Davisson (R-Salem) were recently appointed to several House standing committees.

State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Cindy Ledbetter (R-Newburgh) were recently appointed to several House standing committees.

State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) was recently appointed to three House standing committees and named assistant majority whip for the Indiana House Republican Caucus.

State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) were recently appointed to key leadership positions and several House standing committees.

Teachers have a lasting impact on children's lives, helping to shape the minds of future generations. To help recruit more Hoosier educators and reduce the cost of college tuition, Indiana offers future teachers a scholarship that can be used to pay for tuition and other school-related expenses. High school seniors and current college students pursuing teaching as a career should apply for the state's Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship.

Several local arts and cultural organizations received more than $101,000 in support grants to help recover COVID-19 related expenses, according to State Reps. Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) and Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).

Indiana is home to more than 520,000 small businesses employing over 1.2 million Hoosiers. These are our neighbors, friends and family members who work hard to provide quality goods and services. Whether in person, online or by making a call, we can all do our part to support small businesses on Saturday, Nov.  28 and beyond.

On average, Americans spend approximately $1,200 a year on prescription drugs. While Indiana has taken steps to curb costs, there is still work to do to make prescribed medications more affordable for Hoosiers. Through legislation I am working on for the upcoming session, Indiana could join 21 other states allowing pre-approved medical facilities to distribute donated medications and supplies.

Indiana is a great place to call home. What makes Indiana so great? From our low taxes and cost of living to our Hoosier values, our state attracts people from all over the world. Indiana is also the best in the Midwest and fifth in the nation for doing business based on our fiscal stability, work-based learning programs and incentives.

State Reps. Steve Davisson (R-Salem) and Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) encourage communities in Southern Indiana to apply for the Community Crossings Matching Grant Program to help fund local road and bridge projects.

State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) encourage communities in Southwest Indiana to apply for the Community Crossings Matching Grant Program to help fund local road and bridge projects.

Indiana is known as the Crossroads of America for the number of interstate highways that run through the state. We're also ranked number one for infrastructure according to CNBC's 2019 America's Top States For Business study. To maintain our position as a leader in transportation infrastructure, local cities, towns and counties can apply for the Community Crossings Matching Grant Program to complete much-needed road projects.

State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Steve Davisson (R-Salem) encourage local college students and recent graduates looking to gain valuable work experience to apply online for a paid internship with the Indiana House of Representatives at the Statehouse in Indianapolis.

Securing infrastructure and broadband grants, providing mental health services and addressing jail overcrowding are among the important issues discussed during the recent two-day summit hosted by State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).

State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) encourage local college students and recent graduates looking to gain valuable work experience to apply online for a paid internship with the Indiana House of Representatives at the Statehouse in Indianapolis.