STATEHOUSE (Jan. 25, 2023) — To help better prepare Hoosier high school students for life after graduation, State Rep. Tim O'Brien (R-Evansville) co-authored legislation that would require completion of a financial literacy course.
O'Brien said if passed into law, starting with the Class of 2027, students would be required to successfully complete a personal financial responsibility course ahead of graduating from a public, charter or state-accredited nonpublic school.
"Having basic financial skills is critical to successfully navigating life on your own," O'Brien said. "From budgeting to borrowing, these are critical concepts that young adults need to understand to avoid costly mistakes that can take years to fix."
According to O'Brien, financial literacy courses could include topics on spending and saving, opening and managing bank accounts, debt management, tax returns, loan applications, and credit and credit scores. He said the State Board of Education would be tasked with establishing the curriculum.
House Bill 1281 is assigned to the House Education Committee for consideration. Watch session and committees live, and view legislation at iga.in.gov.
-30-
State Rep. Tim O'Brien (R-Evansville) represents House District 78,
which includes portions of Vanderburgh and Warrick counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
