As the General Assembly wrapped up the second week of the legislative session, we are working diligently on bills addressing issues that matter most to Hoosiers. Hearing from and safely meeting with constituents, fellow lawmakers and stakeholders about a number of topics helps guide me as I work hard on behalf of House District 58. Among my key priorities is to continue supporting our schools as they navigate obstacles resulting from the pandemic.
Already, we are fast tracking a bill that would ensure full funding for all K-12 public school students for the 2020-21 school year, regardless of how they learned due to COVID-19. Under current law, students must attend class in-person in order for schools to receive full funding. Because many schools chose to temporarily shift to virtual learning to keep students and educators safe, there were some concerns schools would not receive 100 percent funding. This proposal is expected to be voted on next week by the House of Representatives, and I will support this measure to ensure our schools have the funding they need to educate students. Visit iga.in.gov to learn more about this bill and others that will be considered this session.
As we are working on legislation, I remain focused on our community. From teachers and instructional aides to doctors and CNAs, librarians to mechanics, and grocery store employees to skilled laborers, hometown heroes are what make Johnson County a great place to call home. So many of our neighbors, friends and family members work hard to provide for others and give back to our community, and they deserve recognition. Like Nathan Taylor of New Whiteland, the first recipient of the Hardworking Hoosier Award. Kylee Meece nominated Nathan for this award because she is appreciative of his work ethic, which allows her to remain home and raise their young son. He is a truck driver who often works 10 hours or more a day, including weekends, to provide for his family. When he's not at work, she said Nathan still finds time to spend with his family, help his friends and give back to our community.
Thank you, Nathan, for all that you do for Johnson County and Indiana. Your hard work and dedication is very much appreciated, especially now when truck drivers are essential in transporting critical items throughout the state and country.
If you know someone in House District 58 who works hard to make our community a better place to live, work or raise a family, please nominate them for the Hardworking Hoosier Award. Recipients are recognized with a certificate and pin, and spotlighted in my districtwide e-newsletter. Subscribe to my e-newsletter or nominate someone online at in.gov/h58.
It is an honor to represent our community at the Statehouse. I am always open to hearing your thoughts on legislation and state issues. To share your opinions or ask questions, please contact me at h58@iga.in.gov or 317-234-9447.
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State Rep. Michelle Davis (R-Whiteland) represents House District 58,
which includes a portion of Johnson County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
PICTURED: State Rep. Michelle Davis (R-Whiteland) (left) presents Nathan Taylor (center) of New Whiteland with a Hardworking Hoosier Award. Taylor was nominated by Kylee Meece (right), who said his hard work as a truck driver allows her to stay home and take care of their son. Davis recognizes hardworking individuals in House District 58 for their contributions to the community and state. Visit in.gov/h58 to learn more and nominate someone for this award.
