STATEHOUSE (July 7, 2021) – State Rep. J.D. Prescott (R-Union City) said Hoosiers should be aware of several new state laws effective July 1, including the state budget and those supporting public safety officers and lawful gun owners, and protecting the sanctity of life.
"Living within our means is an important part of the state's budgeting process, just like it is for many Hoosier families," said Prescott, a member of the House Ways and Means Committee responsible for crafting the state budget. "The new state budget remains balanced and puts money back to protect us against economic downturns, all while making strong investments in our students, police departments, job providers and communities."
Prescott highlighted several new and notable laws:
Funding Hoosier Priorities
Indiana's next two-year, $37 billion state budget reduces taxpayer-funded debt by over $1 billion, and provides opportunities for future tax cuts and reforms. House Enrolled Act 1001 funds critical government services and proven programs while making historic investments in K-12 education, broadband and economic development
Supporting Law Enforcement
Indiana directed $70 million in the state budgets to improve law enforcement training facilities and programs. Departments can apply for grants to purchase body-worn cameras. Prescott co-authored House Enrolled Act 1006, which received bipartisan support and total backing from law enforcement, to give police more tools to vet candidates and hire the best officers.
Strengthening Pro-Life Movement
To support expectant mothers and their unborn babies, physicians could be required to provide time-sensitive information to pregnant women on how they may stop the progression of a drug-induced abortion. Prescott said House Enrolled Act 1577 could save lives by helping mothers who want to reverse course and give birth to their child.
Supporting Lawful Gun Owners
Lawful Hoosier gun owners will no longer pay a fee to obtain a lifetime license to carry a handgun thanks to the passage of House Enrolled Act 1001. Hoosiers can visit IN.gov/ISP to apply for a free five-year or lifetime license, or renew current permits. The process to legally purchase a handgun remains the same.
Visit iga.in.gov for more information on these and other new laws.
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State Rep. J.D. Prescott (R-Union City) represents House District 33,
which includes Jay and Randolph counties, and a portion of Delaware County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
