“A lot was accomplished this session, due to a collaborative effort between both parties and both bodies of the legislature,” said Rep. Davis. “I am proud of the legislation I had the opportunity to work on with my fellow representatives and senators. I truly believe this session was a success for all Hoosiers as our top priorities of jobs, education and fiscal integrity were addressed here at the Statehouse.” Rep. Davis’ authored bill, House Bill (HB) 1262, allows the Alcohol and Tobacco Commission (ATC) to approve an alcohol server program established by a third party that provides both online and self-study courses and also establishes requirements for both courses. Due to changing technology, it is believed that an online course in alcohol serving is an acceptable change to current practices and will be easier for Hoosiers to access. “Businesses are supportive of this change as a way to increase employee readiness in a more timely manner,” said Rep. Davis. “Current practices are holding back bars and restaurants in a way that is not conducive to employee training and business expansion because travel to and from physical training locations takes time away from responsibilities at the place of business.” A bill co-authored by Rep. Davis, HB 1324, deals with motor fuels. The legislation provides an income tax credit for natural gas powered vehicles weighing at least 33,000 pounds. In doing so, the maximum weight limitation for a vehicle that uses natural gas as a motor fuel is increased by 2,000 pounds. HB 1324, will decrease dependence on foreign oil in addition to creating more jobs in Indiana. “Because there is such an abundance of domestic natural gas, we have experienced a significant drop in the price for it, even though natural gas is not a traditional transportation fuel,” said Rep. Davis. “However, because of its low cost, natural gas will become a mainstream transportation fuel. This bill aligns with the actions of natural gas becoming more prevalent. Also, the tax credit in this bill will help small and medium-size businesses overcome up-front expenses that natural gas vehicles have.” Rep. Davis will continue to work in the coming months in his district for the people of Indiana. He serves as chairman of the Committee on Public Policy as well as on the Committees on Elections and Apportionment, Employment, Labor and Pensions, Roads and Transportation, Rules and Legislative Procedures and the Committee on Joint Rules. “I consider it an honor and privilege to serve the citizens of Jay, Randolph, and Delaware Counties,” said Rep. Davis. “We have made great strides during this session, coming to the Statehouse each day with Hoosiers best interest in mind. I applaud my colleagues in the House of Representatives and Senate for coming together in a bipartisan way to create a brighter future for Hoosiers as we continue to make Indiana the best state to live, work and raise a family.” -30-
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