Culp, Pressel: Legislative session ends with new laws to help Hoosiers

STATEHOUSE (March 24, 2026) – The 2026 legislative session concluded with the passage of several new laws aimed at lowering everyday costs, streamlining government and giving families and communities opportunities to thrive, according to State Reps. Kendell Culp (R-Rensselaer) and Jim Pressel (R-Rolling Prairie).

During session, lawmakers approved measures focused on affordability, tax relief and supporting Indiana’s continued economic growth. These new laws build on Indiana’s strong fiscal position and commitment to responsible budgeting.

Culp said a major theme this year was cutting through red tape whether in housing, energy, government or education. All House Republican priority bills passed both chambers and were signed into law by the governor.

"The new laws we passed this session ensure more Hoosiers can thrive," Culp said. "I will continue to make sure our efforts reflect the best interests of Indiana's communities."

New laws passed during the 2026 legislative session include:

• House Enrolled Act 1002: Prioritizes energy affordability by adding performance-based accountability to ensure utilities are hitting targets aimed at reducing costs and improving services for Hoosier ratepayers. It expands the use of levelized billing plans for low-income customers to ensure more consistent monthly payments and adds additional protections for Hoosiers.
• House Enrolled Act 1177: Expands the state's employer child care tax credit for businesses that offer child care options to employees. The credit can be used to help pay for costs such as operating or contracting with a child care facility, employee training and higher wages for staff.
  
  • House Enrolled Act 1424: Prevents over-regulation on Hoosier farmers and local vendors, giving them more freedom to sell their products and expanding access to affordable, homegrown food.
  
  • Senate Enrolled Act 1: Targets waste, fraud and abuse in taxpayer-funded assistance programs. It mandates verification of immigration status and income for all Medicaid and SNAP recipients and requires more frequent eligibility checks to ensure assistance goes to those who truly need it. SNAP recipients are prohibited from using their benefits to buy candy and soft drinks.

Pressel said that overall, more than 90 percent of all bills passed this session received bipartisan support, with nearly half passing unanimously.

"As your state representative, I am dedicated to ensuring legislation passed at the Statehouse is in the best interest of Northwest Indiana," Pressel said. "I understand the need to address rising costs and prioritized affordability and accountability of utilities across the state."

Click here to learn more about these and other new laws passed in the 2026 legislative session or visit iga.in.gov.

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State Rep. Kendell Culp (R-Rensselaer) represents House District 16,
which includes portions of Jasper, Pulaski, Starke and White counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.

State Rep. Jim Pressel (R-Rolling Prairie) represents District 20,
which includes portions of LaPorte and Starke counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.