The legislative session is at the halfway point, and state lawmakers are making progress on several bills supporting Hoosiers. A lot of policy discussions center on ensuring our state bounces back from the pandemic stronger than before, whether it be through improving Hoosier health, helping struggling small businesses or supporting Hoosier workers. We're also focused on better preparing students for the workforce, which is why I am co-authoring two bills helping young Hoosiers gain the needed skills for higher-paying, in-demand jobs.
A practical piece of legislation would help high school students make better-informed decisions about their education by creating a catalogue of eligible courses related to work-based learning, pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship opportunities. Providers of these programs would be eligible to receive workforce ready grants through the state's Next Level Jobs initiative, which reimburses employers for training and retaining employees in high-demand industries. To ensure students take advantage of these opportunities without falling behind, some alternative courses in science, technology, engineering or mathematics could replace classes currently needed to fulfil Indiana's diploma requirements. This proposal could set students on a successful career path before high school graduation.
In order to make sure more Hoosiers know about state-provided resources helping them in their careers, I am co-authoring a bill that would require the Indiana Department of Workforce Development to inform eligible individuals without a high school diploma of available training and educational opportunities. This legislation would be especially beneficial for students with disabilities or those with an Individualized Education Program who may have received a certificate of completion or withdrew from school without graduating. Without a diploma, these Hoosiers may face barriers entering the workforce, and this proposal would provide a second chance to obtain the necessary skills needed to be successful in an in-demand career. The State Board of Education would also adopt rules to establish an alternative diploma for students with significant cognitive disabilities, so these Hoosiers are not left behind.
Both of these bills advanced out of the Indiana House of Representatives unanimously and can now be considered by the Senate.
Throughout the second half of the legislative session, we will consider legislation proposed by Senate lawmakers and finalize proposals for new laws. Information on bills, legislative hearings and archived meeting videos is available at iga.in.gov.
Back home, I have enjoyed meeting community members and highlighting them for their hard work with the Hardworking Hoosier Award. Our neighbors make Johnson County the best place to live, work and raise a family, and it has been so inspiring to hear about those making a difference every day. If you know someone who goes above and beyond, and gives back to our community, please nominate them for this award. Recipients receive a pin and special certificate, and are spotlighted in my e-newsletter. More information and a nomination form can be found online at in.gov/h58.
With this being my first session as a member in the General Assembly, I am focusing on learning as much as possible and staying connected with members in our community. I provide updates on legislation and other state issues through my e-newsletter, which can be subscribed to at in.gov/h58. Knowing your thoughts on legislation and issues impacting our state helps me as I vote on bills. Please reach out at 317-234-9447 or h58@iga.in.gov to share your input and ask questions.
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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.
