STATEHOUSE - Senate Bill 561, sponsored by State Representative Todd Huston (R-Fishers) passed the House on Tuesday unanimously. The bill adds the creation of the Indiana 2016 Bicentennial Commission to commemorate Indiana’s statehood to the Indiana Code.
The commission will encourage participation from local governments and organizations in activities to highlight the bicentennial.
“Indiana’s 2016 Bicentennial celebration aims to honor our state’s 200 years of history in a big way,” said Rep. Huston. “We want to make sure that Hoosiers all over the state are engaged and knowledgeable of this momentous occasion. This celebration will leave a lasting legacy for future generations of Hoosiers.”
The commission would plan and develop activities to celebrate the bicentennial, encourage private organizations and local governments to organize and participate in activities in their local communities, in addition to coordinating and promoting bicentennial activities throughout Indiana.
In December 2011, Governor Mitch Daniels appointed a fifteen-member commission, chaired by Lt. Governor Becky Skillman and former Congressman Lee Hamilton, to oversee the planning and execution of a statewide celebration for Indiana’s 200th birthday. The bill will add the Bicentennial Commission to the Indiana Code.
“This commission will encourage each community in Indiana to take part in this unique celebration. There is nothing quite like celebrating our Hoosier pride, and we certainly have a lot to be proud of in our state’s history. I’m looking forward to seeing our communities come together to honor Indiana’s achievements in our past,” said Rep. Huston.
The bill passed in the Senate in February with a vote of 49-0. For more information about SB 561 and other legislation, log on to www.in.gov/legislative and search for the bill number.
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Rep. Huston(R-Fishers) represents portions of Hamilton County.
