STATEHOUSE (June 28, 2024) – As summer kicks off in Indiana, local lawmakers want Hoosiers to know about a wide range of new state laws taking effect July 1.
State Rep. Cory Criswell (R-Middletown) said most new laws passed during the 2024 legislative session take effect July 1, including increasing Indiana's teacher pipeline. Hoosiers who want to make a career switch and go into teaching can apply for Transition to Teaching Scholarships. To be eligible for a one-time, non-renewable scholarship of up to $10,000, applicants pursuing a transition to teaching certification must have a bachelor's degree, agree to obtain an initial practitioner license and teach in Indiana for at least five years.
"These laws are designed to enhance the quality of life for our citizens, promote efficient growth and ensure the well-being of all Hoosiers," Criswell said. "We managed to get a lot done this session and are already preparing to keep improving our state and support Hoosiers."
State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers) said lawmakers took action on a wide range of hot-button issues this year like protecting Hoosier farmland. To help protect Indiana's farmland and food supply chain, individuals or entities associated with foreign adversaries like Russia and China will be banned from purchasing or leasing agricultural land, and mineral, water or riparian rights. China, Russia, North Korea and Iran will also be prevented from purchasing or leasing land within a 10-mile radius of military installations.
"Selling agricultural land to foreign enemies jeopardizes our state's food security," said Jeter, who co-authored the new law. "As one of the top producing agricultural states in the country, we must protect our farmland and ensure that it remains an asset for our food production."
State Rep. Bob Cherry (R-Greenfield) said lawmakers took action on a wide range of hot-button issues this year like stepping up for public retirees. Indiana's nearly 90,000 retired public servants like law enforcement and teachers will receive a 13th check to help cover cost-of-living expenses. Existing, dedicated funds will be used to make a one-time, post-retirement payment, which will average about $360 per recipient.
"We stepped up for the men and women who worked incredibly hard for our state by providing them with some additional financial help, especially during this time of high inflation," said Cherry, who authored the new law. "Thanks to years of good fiscal stewardship, Indiana can provide this support for the Hoosiers who dedicated so much to making our state great."
Local lawmakers also highlighted the following new law:
To help protect Indiana's elections, officials will have more tools to maintain accurate and up-to-date voter registration lists. Also, proof of citizenship will be required for individuals registering with temporary IDs and first-time voters will be required to provide proof of residency.
Visit iga.in.gov to learn more about these and other new state laws.
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State Rep. Bob Cherry (R-Greenfield) represents House District 53,
which includes portions of Hancock and Madison counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Cory Criswell (R-Middletown) represents House District 54,
which includes portions of Hancock, Henry, Rush and Shelby counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers) represents House District 88,
which includes portions of Hamilton, Hancock, Madison and Marion counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
