In Indianapolis this past week, the Colts lost their playoff game, we heard an exceptional State of the State address from Governor Daniels, and House legislators filed 603 bills by the deadline. Do any of these events really matter to average Hoosiers? The short answer is yes, just some more than others. All of Indiana's Colts fans were terribly disappointed by the loss to the Jets. Now all we can do is look forward to next year's season. Governor Daniels' State of the State address was delivered well and contained many thoughtful proposals, most of which will have to be enacted by the legislature. Hopefully, we, as a General Assembly, can enact meaningful legislation that benefits our entire state. This leads into the 603 bills filed in the House this session. Each House legislator (100 legislators total) was limited to filing a maximum of ten bills. Of course, the total House maximum would be 1,000 bills. I am pleased at the restraint shown by House legislators as they only filed 603 bills. This number still presents a formidable workload when you consider that a two-year budget is our primary concern and requirement. I have filed several bills that have come from constituent requests. House Bill 1198 would allow a local governmental unit to apply for lake and river enhancement funds to remove logjams in natural streams. This bill comes from a local resident who is concerned about flooding caused by logjams in a local natural stream. I hope this bill receives a fair hearing in the Natural Resources committee. Another bill is House Bill 1199, dealing with automated traffic control systems. The bill would allow speed controls and cameras in construction and school zones. My purpose is to protect school children and construction workers in their transportation and work zones. I am not seeking to enhance local revenues by ticketing in normal traffic. My goal is to protect kids on the street and workers on their various projects. If this technology can enhance the safety of children and highway workers, I believe they are entitled to it. I have also filed House Bill 1243, a registration fee for electric vehicles. With the new focus on electric cars and delivery vehicles, it is important that they (the owners) have the opportunity to contribute to the Motor Vehicle Highway (MVH) fund that maintains our highway system. It simply is not fair for motorists who purchase gasoline/diesel fuel to fund maintenance on our roads while the electric vehicles do not pay a tax on their fuel to contribute to our highway system. The registration fee will be dedicated to the MVH fund so it will be added to the gas tax being paid. I recognize that this is early in the process for electric vehicles, but we need to start somewhere just as an issue of fairness. Many continue to inquire about our family dog, Buddy, and we appreciate your concern. In November, he was injured by a school bus and had to have his left front leg amputated at the shoulder. His progress has been amazing. He loves all the additional attention he receives and can run almost as well as when he had four legs. Buddy is doing very well, and the Friend family thanks you all for your concerns. Please continue to stay in touch. This is your state government. Stay involved. More later, Bill Friend
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