STATEHOUSE (Feb. 15, 2021) – On Thursday, the Indiana House of Representatives passed State Rep. Mike Karickhoff's (R-Kokomo) bill that could help Indiana become a leader in the growing electric vehicle industry.
Karickhoff, the author of House Bill 1168, said this commission appointed by the governor and legislature would be tasked with evaluating Indiana's production capability and workforce to develop electric vehicles. This group would also be responsible for identifying training needs and helping Indiana's automotive industry transition to developing this new technology.
"Indiana is competing against the world in trying to be a leader in this key industry," Karickhoff said. "The Hoosier state has the fundamentals to continue its momentum of being an automotive powerhouse as it transitions to new and innovative ways of developing cars for consumers while creating new job opportunities for our workforce."
In addition, Karickhoff said this commission would be charged with determining how the industry can build upon its existing infrastructure and workforce to increase electric vehicle production. He said by recognizing these factors early, the state can position itself to continue expanding this industry and attracting new high-paying jobs to the state.
Karickhoff's bill comes as General Motors recently announced during the Super Bowl that it plans to have 30 new electric vehicle options by 2025. This manufacture currently has five facilities in Indiana and employs more than 6,400 people.
House Bill 1168 received support from the United Autoworkers Union, Stellantis North America, Indiana Chamber of Commerce, General Motors, Zef Energy and Battery Innovation Center.
For more information about House Bill 1168, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Mike Karickhoff (R-Kokomo) represents House District 30,
which includes portions of Grant and Howard counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
