STATEHOUSE (July 9, 2021) – State Rep. Jim Pressel (R-Rolling Prairie) said Hoosiers should be aware of several new state laws effective July 1 that will expand broadband access, improve public health, protect individual rights and help small businesses.
"State lawmakers put Hoosiers first and worked diligently during the 2021 legislative session to pass laws to meet constituents' needs," Pressel said. "These new laws will help connect more rural areas to high-speed internet, protect our freedom of religion, and support small businesses and Hoosiers facing health challenges."
Pressel highlighted several new and notable laws:
Expanding Broadband Access
House Enrolled Act 1001 provides an unprecedented $250 million investment that will help expand reliable and affordable internet service, especially in unserved and underserved areas. House Enrolled Act 1449 also prioritizes broadband access for Hoosier schools, students and health care clinics in rural communities.
Improving Public Health
House Enrolled Act 1007 creates a new grant program that will direct $50 million to initiatives targeting Indiana's greatest health challenges like diabetes and addiction. Indiana also invested $100 million to support proven mental health programs. The governor signed Senate Enrolled Act 3 into law to provide Hoosiers with more access to telehealth services and mental health treatment.
Protecting In-Person Worship
Religious gatherings are defined as essential, and Senate Enrolled Act 263 ensures the government cannot restrict the right to worship in-person during public emergencies. Other church services like food pantries, daycare or educational classes can also not be more restricted than other essential services.
Helping Small Businesses
Senate Enrolled Act 1 and House Enrolled Act 1002 support employers and jobs by extending civil liability protections related to COVID-19 to employers, schools and health care entities. House Enrolled Act 1004, effective since mid-April, allows local employers impacted by the pandemic to apply for a Small Business Restart Grant to pay for a portion of business and payroll-related expenses. Hoosier employers can learn more and apply at backontrack.in.gov.
Visit iga.in.gov for more information on these and other new laws.
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State Rep. Jim Pressel (R-Rolling Prairie) represents House District 20,
which includes portions of LaPorte and Starke counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
