STATEHOUSE (Feb. 11, 2025) – State Rep. Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) authored House Bill 1618 to designate the persimmon as the official fruit of Indiana after students from Jasper Elementary School wrote an essay on the topic.
Lindauer said the students presented a persuasive essay, expanded their knowledge on the persimmon, acquired the skills needed to deliver a presentation and gained valuable insights on how a bill becomes a law.
"With persuasive writing being a key focus in fourth grade, this opportunity gave students a chance to engage civically while developing valuable skills," Lindauer said. "The students of Jasper Elementary did a fantastic job researching and presenting why the persimmon should be designated Indiana's state fruit."
The students identified four key reasons the persimmon should receive the designation, including that Indiana currently does not have a state fruit, persimmons are native to Indiana, and the fruit has evident health benefits and has the potential to contribute to the state's economy.
Yesterday, the students traveled to the Statehouse in Indianapolis to present their arguments to the House Government and Regulatory Reform Committee.
Visit iga.in.gov to learn more about this and other proposed legislation and watch session and committee meetings.
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State Rep. Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) represents House District 63,
which includes all of Martin County, and portions of Daviess, Dubois and Pike counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
PHOTO CAPTION: Students from Jasper Elementary School visit the House Chamber to watch a hearing on legislation to make the persimmon Indiana's official fruit on Monday, Feb. 10, 2025, at the Statehouse in Indianapolis. State Rep. Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) authored the legislation after the students wrote an essay advocating for the designation.
