STATEHOUSE (April 1, 2026) – The 2026 legislative session concluded with the passage of several new laws aimed at lowering everyday costs, streamlining government and giving families and communities opportunities to thrive, according to Marion County lawmakers.
"House Republicans prioritized streamlining our education regulations so teachers can better focus on leading their classrooms," said State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis), chair of the House Education Committee and author of House Enrolled Act 1004. "We also worked on reducing energy costs and bolstering our public safety laws to better protect our community."
During session, lawmakers approved measures focused on affordability, tax relief and supporting Indiana’s continued economic growth. These new laws build on Indiana’s strong fiscal position and commitment to responsible budgeting.
"Cost of living remains a top concern and lawmakers took action this year to help working Hoosiers keep more of their money," said State Rep. Julie McGuire (R-Indianapolis). "We made sure that Indiana is consistent with federal tax cuts on tips and overtime pay, and I authored a new law to hold hospitals more accountable in helping patients with medical debt."
State Rep. Andrew Ireland (R-Indianapolis) said a major theme this year was cutting through red tape whether in housing, energy, government or education. All House Republican priority bills passed both chambers and were signed into law by the governor.
"Cutting taxes and streamlining bureaucracy will help ensure our state government runs as efficiently as possible," Ireland said. "Other priorities were keeping our tax money out of the hands of hostile countries and working with the federal government on illegal immigration enforcement."
New laws passed during the 2026 legislative session include:
House Enrolled Act 1002: Prioritizes energy affordability by adding performance-based accountability to ensure utilities are hitting targets aimed at reducing costs and improving services for Hoosier ratepayers. It expands the use of levelized billing plans for low-income customers to ensure more consistent monthly payments and adds additional protections for Hoosiers.
Senate Enrolled Act 243: Aligns with President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill to deliver tax cuts for hardworking Hoosiers. Under the law, Hoosiers can deduct qualifying tips and overtime pay from their state taxable income for 2026.
Senate Joint Resolution 1/Senate Enrolled Act 3: Seeks to amend the Indiana Constitution giving judges more flexibility to deny bail to suspects who pose a substantial threat to public safety. This question will be added to the ballot in November this year.
Senate Enrolled Act 76: Clarifies and strengthens Indiana's immigration enforcement laws by ensuring local and state cooperation with federal authorities, requiring local units of government to comply with immigration detainer requests.
State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers) said that overall, more than 90% of all bills passed this session received bipartisan support, with nearly half passing unanimously.
"During this legislative session we focused on expanding Indiana’s strengths and addressing the needs of our communities," Jeter said. "New laws will help reduce cost burdens on families, improve public safety and protect young Hoosiers."
Click here to learn more about these and other new laws passed in the 2026 legislative session or visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) represents House District 91,
which includes a portion of Marion County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Andrew Ireland (R-Indianapolis) represents House District 90,
which includes a portion of Marion County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers) represents House District 88,
which includes portions of Hamilton, Hancock, Madison and Marion counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Julie McGuire (R-Indianapolis) represents House District 93,
which includes a portion of Marion County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
