STATEHOUSE (July 12, 2021) – From historic education funding to supporting public safety officers, State Reps. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) and Mike Speedy (R-Indianapolis) said Hoosiers should be aware of several new state laws effective July 1.
Here are several new and notable laws impacting Indianapolis and the state:
Funding Hoosier Priorities
Indiana's next two-year, $37 billion state budget reduces taxpayer-funded debt by over $1 billion, and provides opportunities for future tax cuts and reforms. House Enrolled Act 1001 funds critical government services and proven programs while making unprecedented investments in K-12 education, broadband and economic development.
According to Behning, the state's biennial budget invests a historic $1.9 billion in K-12 education, including $600 million annually to increase teacher pay. He said lawmakers also significantly expanded Indiana's Choice Scholarship program, empowering more families than ever before to send their child to schools that best meet their needs.
"This is a historic budget for Hoosier students, teachers and families," said Behning, chair of the House Education Committee. "Not only will schools across the state see unprecedented increases in funding, but more hardworking families will also have the freedom and flexibility to send their children to a school of their choice. No matter where students choose to attend school, Indiana continues to prioritize their needs."
Supporting Law Enforcement
The state budget directs $70 million to improve law enforcement training facilities and programs. Departments can also apply for grants to purchase body-worn cameras. House Enrolled Act 1006, co-authored by Behning and Speedy, gives police more tools to vet candidates and hire the best officers.
"Our local law enforcement face tough challenges every day they go to work," Speedy said. "At a time when our city is seeing a rise in violence, police officers need resources to protect our neighborhoods. Not only will they have access to grants to obtain training and equipment, police departments will also be able to access critical information when vetting and hiring new officers."
Behning and Speedy also supported House Enrolled Act 1558, creating the Central Indiana Crime Guns Task Force. Law enforcement in Central Indiana counties will team up to get violent criminals off the streets. Speedy said the group will share information, use data-driven methods to link crime guns to unsolved cases and collaborate to apprehend suspects.
Protecting Individual Rights
Senate Enrolled Act 263 defines religious gatherings as essential, and ensures the government cannot restrict the right to worship in-person during public emergencies. According to Behning, other church services like food pantries, daycare or educational classes can also not be more restricted than other essential services.
Speedy said lawful Hoosier gun owners will no longer pay a fee to obtain a lifetime license to carry a handgun thanks to House Enrolled Act 1001. Hoosiers can visit IN.gov/ISP to apply for a free five-year or lifetime license, or renew current permits. The process to legally purchase a handgun remains the same.
Visit iga.in.gov for more information on these and other new laws.
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State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) represents House District 91,
which includes portions of Hendricks and Marion counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Mike Speedy (R-Indianapolis) represents House District 90,
which includes portions of Marion County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
