STATEHOUSE (July 11, 2023) – New state laws supporting Hoosiers and backed by local lawmakers during the 2023 legislative session are now in effect.
"This session, we worked to help more incarcerated individuals get better access to help," said State Rep. Elizabeth Rowray (R-Yorktown). "We also made it easier for law enforcement to transport non-violent and low-risk individuals to treatment facilities instead of overburdened jails. We want to make sure they get the care they need to lead productive, crime-free lives."
Most legislation passed during the recent session took effect at the beginning of the state's new fiscal year on July 1.
Under the state's newly passed state budget, taxpayers are expected to save an estimated $430 million over the next two years via tax relief passed during the legislative session. Thanks to the acceleration of individual state income tax cuts, hardworking Hoosiers will have one of the lowest rates in the nation by 2027. Indiana's K-12 spending makes up about half of the state's $44.6 billion budget, and lawmakers supported increasing student funding by 10% over the next two years. In addition, parents will no longer pay textbook and curricular fees.
"As liberal policies at the national level continue to fail Americans, Indiana remains focused on supporting Hoosiers and Hoosier priorities, like keeping taxes low, and empowering students and families," said State Rep. J.D. Prescott (R-Union City). "Our state budget is balanced with no gimmicks, saves for a rainy day and makes investments that will deliver results for years to come."
Local lawmakers highlighted the following new laws:
Increasing Mental Health Treatment
Law enforcement will have the ability to refer low-riskndividuals suffering from a mental illness, or impairment from drugs and alcohol to the nearest mental health facility instead of the county jail. Individuals will not be turned away due to an inability to pay for services. Local mental health and addiction referral programs will also be available to help those who are incarcerated get treatment.
Providing Tax Relief for Homeowners
Property tax dollars are collected and spent locally, and help pay for schools, police and fire protection, and other local government services. To help counter the rise in local property tax bills, the state took actions to provide about $100 million in property tax relief for homeowners beginning next year. Hoosiers can expect a temporary increase to the supplemental homestead tax deduction and additional limits on property tax levy growth.
Honoring Active-Duty Military
To honor members of the armed services, active-duty military will receive a complete income tax exemption starting next year. This tax relief could also attract more out-of-state service members and their families to call Indiana home, and help fill the workforce pipeline.
Visit iga.in.gov to learn more about these and other new state laws now in effect.
-30-
State Rep. Elizabeth Rowray (R-Yorktown) represents House District 35,
which includes portions of Delaware and Madison counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. J.D. Prescott (R-Union City) represents House District 33,
which includes Jay and Randolph counties, and a portion of Delaware County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
