STATEHOUSE (July 2, 2021) – State Rep. Karen Engleman (R-Georgetown) said Hoosiers should be aware of several new state laws effective July 1, including the new state budget and those supporting law enforcement, expanding broadband access and investing in students.
"Lawmakers are paying down $1 billion in debt while making lasting investments in K-12 education, law enforcement training and expansion of broadband internet," Engleman said. "These laws help give police the tools they need to keep us safe and schools the resources to support students who might fall behind. The positive impact of these laws will be felt for years to come."
Engleman highlighted several new and notable laws:
Prioritizing Students, Teachers
House Enrolled Act 1001 funds critical government services and proven programs while making Indiana schools a priority. K-12 education will receive a $1.9 billion increase in funding over the next two years, including $600 million to boost teacher pay, which exceeds the Next Level Teacher Compensation Commission's funding recommendations to make teacher pay more competitive.
Engleman co-authored House Enrolled Act 1008, which establishes a $150 million grant program to support students who are at risk of falling behind or scored below academic standards because of disruptions caused by COVID-19.
"As schools shifted to remote- or e-learning during the pandemic, studies show some Indiana students lost nearly 200 days of learning," Engleman said. "This grant program helps students catch up and get ahead."
Supporting Law Enforcement
Indiana directed $70 million to improve law enforcement training facilities and programs. Departments can apply for grants to purchase body-worn cameras. House Enrolled Act 1006, co-authored by Engleman, received bipartisan support and total backing from law enforcement to give police more tools to vet candidates and hire the best officers.
Expanding Broadband Access
Thanks to House Enrolled Act 1001, an unprecedented $250 million will be invested in affordable internet service, especially in unserved and underserved areas. Lawmakers also prioritized access for Hoosier schools, students and health care clinics in rural communities in House Enrolled Act 1449.
Visit iga.in.gov for more information on these and other new laws.
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State Rep. Karen Engleman (R-Georgetown) represents House District 70,
which includes most of Harrison County, along with portions of Clark and Floyd counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
