STATEHOUSE (Jan. 30, 2025) – The Indiana House overwhelmingly approved State Rep. Ethan Lawson's (R-Greenfield) legislation to ensure consistent appointment and expulsion procedures for public office.
The legislation would require candidates selected for a temporary appointment to an office to meet the same qualifications required for election to the office.
"Hoosiers deserve a government that is trustworthy at all times, and we must continue to ensure public officials meet the same standards, whether elected or appointed," Lawson said. "This bill strengthens accountability and establishes a fair, consistent process for appointments and removals when necessary, in rare cases."
Lawson said the bill would also create a removal procedure for county commissioners in rare cases of violating an official duty, or failing or being unable to perform the duties of the office, with a two-thirds vote of the county commissioners and county council members. This is similar to the existing removal process currently in law for county council members, state legislators and other offices.
House Bill 1197 passed the House with bipartisan support and now moves to the Senate, where Sen. Gaskill and Crider are sponsors, for consideration. To learn more and watch session and committee meetings, visit iga.in.gov.
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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) presents legislation to ensure consistent appointment and expulsion procedures for public office on Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025, in the House Chamber at the Statehouse. House Bill 1197 would ensure consistent qualifications for candidates appointed to public office, while also improving the procedures for expulsion or vacancy of elected officials in rare cases.
