O'Brien: Legislative session ends with new laws to help Hoosiers

STATEHOUSE (March 18, 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 State Rep. Tim O'Brien (R-Evansville).

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.

O'Brien 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.

"Along with my colleagues, I am proud of the work that was done for Hoosiers this year in the legislature," O'Brien said. "These new laws will help expand housing supply, increase access to child care and further protect crime victims, to name a few."

New laws passed during the 2026 legislative session include:

• House Enrolled Act 1250 (Authored):  Boosts safety and peace of mind for victims of violent crime by requiring the Indiana Department of Correction to provide a seven-day advance electronic notice to victims and local law enforcement when a serious violent felon is scheduled for release.
• House Enrolled Act 1001 (Co-Authored): Delivers housing affordability by rolling back and limiting burdensome local regulations that have increased home prices.
• House Enrolled Act 1002: Prioritizes energy affordability by adding performance-based accountability to ensure utilities are hitting targets aimed at reducing costs and increasing reliability.
• Senate Enrolled Act 4 (Co-Sponsored): Strengthens the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher programby allowing the Indiana State Budget Agency to use funds from the Financial Responsibility and Opportunity Growth Fund for the program.
• House Enrolled Act 1177: Expands the state's employer child care tax credit for businesses that offer child care options to employees. Under this law, the credit can be used to help pay for related costs such as operating a child care facility, employee training and higher wages for staff.

Overall, more than 90% of all bills passed this session received bipartisan support, with nearly half passing unanimously.

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. 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.