STATEHOUSE (April 23, 2026) – Gov. Mike Braun recently ceremonially signed into law multiple measures authored and supported by State Rep. Ethan Lawson (R-Greenfield) aimed at protecting homeowners, improving local governance and clarifying election policy in Indiana.
To empower Indiana homeowners and support working families, Lawson authored House Enrolled Act 1152, which safeguards homeowners by limiting HOA budget increases that exceed inflation unless a quorum of residents votes to approve it. It also prohibits HOAs from restricting home-based child care in a resident's single-family home if state safety rules are met.
This protection is important as Indiana has nearly 1,900 licensed family child care homes participating in the Child Care and Development Fund, providing flexible care options for working families across the state. Additionally, the law prohibits HOAs from adopting rules banning amateur radio.
"Homeowners deserve a fair say in decisions that impact their finances and how they use their own property," Lawson said. "This law restricts excessive HOA authority while also protecting access to safe, affordable child care options that many working families rely on every day."
HEA 1161 enhances oversight of local government entities by requiring approval from elected officials before certain unelected boards may exercise eminent domain or commit substantial public funds. The law also adjusts provisions related to county appointments and administrative policies to strengthen accountability at the local level.
Lawson also authored HEA 1202 to improve coordination and reduce administrative burdens within state government and protect child care access. The legislation makes certain emergency medical services background check information accessible to the Indiana Department of Homeland Security and streamlines procedures so the agency can prioritize fire prevention and inspection efforts. These improvements help ensure child care providers and facilities can be reviewed and approved more efficiently, supporting a safer environment for children while reducing delays that can limit access to care. It also updates regulations related to ignition interlock devices to support efforts to deter impaired driving.
"Each of these measures is about making government more accountable and consistent for Hoosiers," Lawson said. "Whether it’s improving how local boards operate, strengthening public safety coordination or ensuring clarity in election processes, these changes help build trust in the systems people rely on every day."
Additionally, Lawson sponsored and attended the signing of Senate Enrolled Act 12 which prohibits ranked choice voting statewide and ensures elections continue to be decided through traditional majority-based outcomes.
To learn more about these and other new laws signed by the governor, click here.
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State Rep. Ethan Lawson (R-Greenfield) represents House District 53,
which includes portions of Hancock and Madison counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
PHOTO CAPTION: State Rep. Ethan Lawson (R-Greenfield) (left) and Sen. Scott Alexander (R-Muncie) (right) joined Gov. Mike Braun (center) for a ceremonial signing of House Enrolled Act 1152 on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at the Statehouse in Indianapolis. The new law, which Lawson authored, empowers Indiana homeowners and support working families.
