Indiana's 2024 legislative session is officially in the books. Not only were we able to finish a week early, saving tax dollars, but we also took several legislative priorities for Hoosier students, state retirees and the protection of Indiana farmland across the finish line.
There are numerous opportunities like apprenticeships and other work-based learning experiences that can open pathways for students to learn the skills they need for the jobs of today. Indiana also needs more workers to fill high-demand, high-wage jobs. That's why I co-authored a new law that will expand opportunities for students to apply for Career Scholarship Accounts, which can be used to pay for career training, apprenticeships, certifications and internships. The law will also remove barriers for students to access work-based learning opportunities. The application window for CSAs is expected to open this spring and interested students can learn more at in.gov/tos/csa.
I also co-authored legislation to support Indiana's over 165,000 retired public employees, including teachers, conservation officers and police officers. Under this new law, retired public employees will receive a supplemental payment known as a 13th check to help cover the costs of record-high inflation. Existing, dedicated funds will be used to make the payments, which will be based on an employee's number of years vested in their retirement plan.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported about 438,000 acres of Hoosier farmland are owned by foreign entities, and that foreign ownership of U.S. land is up 40% since 2016. It's critical that we maintain control over our food supply and help protect national security. That's why I supported a new law that bans foreign adversaries from owning, purchasing or leasing Hoosier farmland, and mineral, water or riparian rights. The U.S. Department of Commerce maintains a list of adversaries, which include Russia, China, North Korea, Iran, Cuba and Venezuela. This new law also protects Hoosier military installations by prohibiting these foreign adversaries, except Cuba and Venezuela, from purchasing land within 10 miles of such a facility.
Session may be over, but my work for the Hoosiers of House District 65 continues year-round. I encourage constituents with any questions or concerns to contact my Statehouse office at h65@iga.in.gov or 317-232-9600. Stay updated by subscribing to my e-newsletter at in.gov/h65.
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State Rep. Chris May (R-Bedford) represents House District 65,
which includes all of Lawrence County, and portions of Jackson, Orange and Washington counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
