Note to the Press – House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers) provided the following statement after formally announcing the 2022 House Republican legislative priorities. Huston said the agenda focuses on protecting individual rights and jobs, returning money to Hoosier taxpayers, strengthening the nursing workforce pipeline, and boosting public safety:
STATEHOUSE (Jan. 6, 2022) – “House Republicans are focused on supporting hardworking Hoosiers and their families, and kicking Indiana's positive momentum into overdrive.
"House Bill 1001 is a direct response to Hoosiers' concerns. We'll help responsibly end the governor's statewide emergency while continuing critical government services and programs. In addition, we want to protect Hoosier's individual rights and their jobs by strengthening vaccine exemptions when employers require it as a condition of employment.
"Hoosiers made it clear that they don’t want more government in their lives and they don't want more spending from us. We're likely facing $5 billion in reserves and a $2 billion structural surplus. It would be irresponsible to grow government. Under our tax cut plan, we would put about $1.3 billion back in Hoosiers' pockets while continuing to protect Indiana's financial future.
"Our health care workers, especially Indiana's nurses, have been stretched thin after nearly two years of serving on the frontlines of the pandemic. Unfortunately, the nursing shortage is worsening and the time to act is now. House Bill 1003 would give a much-needed boost to our state's nursing workforce pipeline. We want to provide flexibility to Indiana’s nurses seeking licensure, our nursing programs and educators, and our nursing students – all of which could help create a healthy talent pool that can meet our current and future needs.
"Public safety is always top of mind and we know that's true for Hoosier families too. To support local public safety efforts, House Bill 1004 would provide judicial flexibility so all felony offenders can be sent to Indiana Department of Correction, which could help alleviate jail overcrowding and allow locals to direct resources to where they matter most.
"I look forward to helping take our top priorities across the finish line as we work hard to complete the people's work on time and under budget."
Click here for a copy of the House Republican legislative agenda.
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House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers) represents House District 37, which
includes portions of Hamilton County. Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
