STATEHOUSE (March 4, 2025) – The Indiana House of Representatives recently advanced State Rep. Jim Pressel's (R-Rolling Prairie) legislation to provide the state and local units of government with additional options to fund road and infrastructure projects.
Preserving Indiana's roads is estimated to cost over $1 billion annually over the next decade. As current road funding methods leave shortfalls, Pressel said House Bill 1461 would diversify funding sources and give more decision-making power to local communities.
"Not every community has the same road funding needs," Pressel said. "By diversifying funding options for the state and local governments, we can meet communities' project and maintenance needs without financially burdening them."
House Bill 1461 would allow county fiscal bodies to levy ad valorem property taxes, which are based on the assessed value of real estate or personal property and a primary revenue source for local governments, for transportation-related purposes. Pressel said this would provide greater funding flexibility and empower local decision-makers to address specific transportation needs in their communities.
The legislation would also incentivize local governments to proactively maintain their infrastructure by allowing counties with good road ratings to reallocate funds to other critical needs. Additionally, the bill would remove a limitation on the Indiana Finance Authority to issue revenue bonds or notes to finance highway and road construction projects.
House Bill 1461 now heads to the Senate for consideration. To learn more and follow legislative proceedings, visit iga.in.gov.
-30-
State Rep. Jim Pressel (R-Rolling Prairie) represents District 20,
which includes portions of LaPorte and Starke counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
