STATEHOUSE – Indiana Legislators were sworn in today, Organization Day, which marks the first meeting for the 118th General Assembly. All 100 members of the House, including 19 new Republicans, were sworn in by Chief Justice Brent Dickson.
“Just like a responsible family, we will sit together at our desks on the House floor and in the committee rooms of this building – and work through the monumental issues facing our state,” said newly reelected Speaker of the House, Brian C. Bosma (R-Indianapolis).
State Representative Ed Soliday (R-Valparaiso) was re-elected to represent House District 4, which now includes the city of Valparaiso, all of Center, Union and Washington townships and portions of Liberty and Jackson townships.
“Beginning in 2006, it has been my esteemed honor to represent my community in the General Assembly, and I will continue to do so with honesty and integrity,” said Rep. Soliday. “I’m convinced that our state’s future depends on making intelligent, strategic investments while living within a balanced budget, creating an environment conducive for economic stimulation and growth.”
In October, the House Republican Caucus released their legislative agenda, making it clear that their focus will be on financial integrity, jobs and education. That focus was echoed today as the 69 House Republicans prepared for the upcoming session with a resolve to accomplish those priorities and continue to propel Indiana to be a state where Hoosiers have the ability to own their American Dream.
“I firmly believe that a quality education is pivotal to success in our global economy, and our community’s top-notch educators should be applauded for dedicating their lives to the instruction of our Hoosier students,” said Rep. Soliday. “Sixty-seven percent of manufacturing companies have reported moderate to severe shortages of available, qualified workers. We must bridge the skills gaps by strengthening Indiana’s education system to provide Hoosier students with the tools they need to fill these positions. This begins by supporting and creating an educational foundation at an early age that catapults Hoosier students ahead in the classroom and in life.”
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