STATEHOUSE (May 1, 2026) – The governor recently ceremonially signed into law a bill authored by State Rep. Tim Yocum (R-Clinton) to help improve education by having the Indiana Department of Education prepare a report on how schools can achieve greater efficiency, lower costs and better outcomes for students.
House Enrolled Act 1242 builds on efforts made by the Indiana legislature to find ways to increase efficiency in the state's education system, ensuring that students can choose an academic path tailored to their post-graduation goals. Yocum said that through this DOE report, the legislature can find areas to reduce unnecessary education spending while improving student outcomes.
"Great education starts with understanding what's working and where improvements can be made," Yocum said. "This study will help us make data-driven decisions to help Hoosier students and teachers excel."
Under the new law, the DOE will work with the Indiana Department of Local Government Finance to conduct a study on the disparities in per-student operational funding amounts across the state.
To learn more about this and other new laws passed during the 2026 legislative session, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Tim Yocum (R-Clinton) represents House District 42, which includes
all of Parke and Vermillion counties, and portions of Clay, Fountain and Vigo counties.
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PHOTO CAPTION: State Rep. Tim Yocum (R-Clinton) (right) joins Gov. Mike Braun (sitting, center) for the ceremonial signing of House Enrolled Act 1242 on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at the Statehouse in Indianapolis. Yocum authored the new law to gather education data that will be used to improve outcomes for Hoosier students. Also pictured is bill sponsor State Sen. Spencer Deery (R-West Lafayette) (left).
