For the better half of a decade, the state has allocated money and expanded resources to protect our most vulnerable Hoosiers – children. As a result, Indiana recently saw the lowest infant mortality rate in state history. We were also recently ranked No. 1 in the country for an increase in the number of adoptions from foster care. As your state representative, it has been an honor to support legislation directly contributing to these achievements. From funding and developing innovative programs to enhancing Indiana's child welfare system, here is a look at a few notable laws directly impacting the lives of young Hoosiers.
There is nothing better than welcoming a child into this world, but unfortunately, far too many Hoosier mothers do not get to experience major milestones like first steps or a first birthday. In 2017, more than 600 babies in Indiana died before turning one. Infant mortality is an issue we've been tackling head on for several years.
Local communities know the needs of Hoosiers best, and as a state, we encourage strong partnerships with organizations in cities and towns to address infant mortality directly. In 2015, I co-authored a law establishing the Safety P.I.N. (Protecting Indiana's Newborns) grant program allowing health departments, hospitals, other health-care related entities or nonprofit organizations to develop and implement services reducing child deaths within their first year. Because of these initiatives and the hard work of Hoosiers, Southwest Indiana's infant mortality rate is improving, along with the statewide average, at 6.2% and 6.5% respectively.
Through a law I co-authored in 2019, expectant and new mothers can be connected to early prenatal care, addiction treatment, wrap-around services and home-visit programs within their local communities and throughout the state. This critical support helps ensure both mom and baby are healthy before, during and after birth. Women needing assistance can call 1-844-MCH-MOMS (1-844-624-6667) or visit in.gov/isdh/21047.htm for resources near them.
In 2019, I supported adding more than $500 million to the Indiana Department of Child Services' budget to decrease employee burn out and expand effective programs. In addition to boosting funding, an adoption unit within DCS was created to help family case manages find forever homes for young Hoosiers. Indiana's new No. 1 ranking for adoption is a direct result of allocating more funding and implementing effective statewide programming.
Promoting the health and safety of Hoosier children – born and unborn – is something Indiana and myself stand for. Across the state, we have already made significant process with our infant mortality rate, and foster care and adoption systems. Even though I am retiring from the General Assembly, I am confident Indiana will continue this momentum and take more steps to protect unborn babies, ensure children's health and find safe forever homes for them.
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State Rep. Ron Bacon (R-Chandler) represents House District 75,
which includes portions of Warrick, Pike and Spencer counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
