Patterson: 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. Lindsay Patterson (R-Brookville).

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.

Patterson 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.

"Our goal throughout session was to listen to constituents and act on the issues that matter most," Patterson said. "These new laws are designed to lower costs for families, improve quality of life and ensure Indiana remains competitive and strong."

New laws passed during the 2026 legislative session include:

• House Enrolled Act 1003: Eliminates, sunsets or restructures dozens of redundant or inactive state boards and commissions to streamline government, improve efficiency and protect taxpayer dollars.
  • House Enrolled Act 1210: Provides more robust property tax relief for Indiana’s veterans, including a 100 percent property tax deduction on assessed value for totally disabled veterans, new and expanded credits for partially disabled and war-time veterans, and a restored property tax deduction for surviving spouses of World War I veterans.  
  • Senate Enrolled Act 1: Targets waste, fraud and abuse in taxpayer-funded assistance programs. Additionally, the new law mandates verification of immigration status and income for all Medicaid and SNAP recipients and requires more frequent eligibility checks to ensure assistance goes to those who need it most.
  • 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.

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. Lindsay Patterson (R-Brookville) represents House District 55, which includes 
all of Fayette, Franklin and Union counties, and portions of Decatur, Ripley and Rush counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.