STATEHOUSE (June 28, 2024) – As summer kicks off in Indiana, State Reps. Cory Criswell (R-Middletown) and Lindsay Patterson (R-Brookville) want Hoosiers to know about a wide range of new state laws taking effect July 1.
State Rep. Lindsay Patterson Zimmerman (R-Brookville) said most new laws passed during the 2024 legislative session take effect July 1, including protecting Hoosier farmland. To help protect Indiana's farmland and food supply chain, individuals or entities associated with foreign adversaries like Russia and China will be banned from purchasing or leasing agricultural land, and mineral, water or riparian rights. China, Russia, North Korea and Iran will also be prevented from purchasing or leasing land within a 10-mile radius of military installations.
"These new laws are a result of listening to Hoosiers about what matters most to them and our local communities," Patterson said. "In our district, protecting prime farmland and standing up for generations of farm families is a top priority. That's why I supported legislation to ensure we stop foreign adversaries from buying up land, which is a growing problem around the country, and disrupting our critical food supply chain."
State Rep. Cory Criswell (R-Middletown) said lawmakers took action on a wide range of hot-button issues this year like stepping up for public retirees. Indiana's nearly 90,000 retired public servants like law enforcement and teachers will receive a 13th check to help cover cost-of-living expenses. Existing, dedicated funds will be used to make a one-time, post-retirement payment, which will average about $360 per recipient.
"These laws are designed to enhance the quality of life for our citizens, promote efficient growth and ensure the well-being of all Hoosiers," said Criswell, who co-authored the new law. "We managed to get a lot done this session and are already preparing to keep improving our state and support Hoosiers."
Local lawmakers also highlighted the following new laws:
Adult-oriented websites will be required to verify users are at least 18 years old before allowing them to access content. These companies must also delete users' personal data immediately after verifying their age. Parents and the Indiana Attorney General's Office will be able to pursue civil action for violations.
Increasing Indiana's Teacher Pipeline
Hoosiers who want to make a career switch and go into teaching can apply for Transition to Teaching Scholarships. To be eligible for a one-time, non-renewable scholarship of up to $10,000, applicants pursuing a transition to teaching certification must have a bachelor's degree, agree to obtain an initial practitioner license and teach in Indiana for at least five years.
Visit iga.in.gov to learn more about these and other new state laws.
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State Rep. Cory Criswell (R-Middletown) represents House District 54,
which includes portions of Hancock, Henry, Rush and Shelby counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Lindsay Patterson (R-Brookville) represents House District 55, which includes
all of Fayette, Franklin and Union counties, and portions of Decatur, Ripley and Rush counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
