STATEHOUSE (July 6, 2021) – State Rep. Chris Judy (R-Fort Wayne) said Hoosiers should be aware of several new state laws effective July 1, including the new state budget and those supporting law enforcement and lawful gun owners, and protecting the sanctity of life.
"As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, I always rely on my conservative principles when making budgetary decisions," Judy said. "The new state budget is a big win for our communities as it supports our hardworking police departments, our schools, and programs to improve our mental and physical health. These strong investments are made without raising taxes, and in fact, create opportunities to further cut spending."
Judy highlighted several new and notable laws:
Funding Hoosier Priorities
Indiana's next two-year, $37 billion state budget reduces taxpayer-funded debt by over $1 billion, and provides opportunities for future tax cuts and reforms. House Enrolled Act 1001 funds critical government services and proven programs while making historic investments in K-12 education, broadband and economic development
Prioritizing Law Enforcement
Indiana directed $70 million in the state budget to improve law enforcement training facilities and programs. Departments can apply for grants to purchase body-worn cameras. Judy co-authored House Enrolled Act 1006, which received bipartisan support and total backing from law enforcement, to give police more tools to vet candidates and hire the best officers.
Strengthening Pro-Life Movement
To support expectant mothers and their unborn babies, physicians could be required to provide time-sensitive information to pregnant women on how they may stop the progression of a drug-induced abortion. Judy said House Enrolled Act 1577 could save lives by helping mothers who want to reverse course and give birth to their child.
Supporting Lawful Gun Owners
Lawful Hoosier gun owners will no longer pay a fee to obtain a lifetime license to carry a handgun thanks to the passage of House Enrolled Act 1001. Hoosiers can visit IN.gov/ISP to apply for a free five-year or lifetime license, or renew current permits. The process to legally purchase a handgun remains the same.
Visit iga.in.gov for more information on these and other new laws.
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State Rep. Chris Judy (R-Fort Wayne) represents House District 83,
which includes portions of Allen and Whitley counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
