[r67] 2011 Legislative Session Wrap-up (5/10/2011)

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2011 Legislative Session Wrap-up

Given the unprecedented nature of this legislative session, it was vital for us to complete the people's work on time and to continue on the right path for our state. Over the last four months, the General Assembly has tackled many important issues in the most transparent manner to inform constituents of proceedings at the Statehouse. This session, I supported a fiscally sound, two-year state budget that did not raise taxes on Hoosiers; an additional $150 million in K-12 education funding, specifically allocating over $45 million for full day kindergarten; and a pro-business, pro-jobs agenda, which lowered the corporate tax rate to foster more employment opportunities so businesses can grow and hire Hoosiers.

As Indiana continues to dust itself off from the national recession, our state has positioned itself to lead the way in the economic recovery. While other states such as New York, Illinois, Michigan and California continue to run amok and add to their insurmountable deficits, Indiana remains a beacon of hope for fiscal responsibility and discipline in this country. Our ability to live within our means has become a model for national implementation.

Under Republican leadership in the General Assembly and the governor's office, Indiana has some of the most pro-business and taxpayer-friendly legislation on the books. It is from these policies that we have seen private sector growth double and our unemployment rate decline to 8.5 percent. I believe the bills highlighted below will lead to greater economic prosperity in our future.

Here is a brief summary of some of the pro-jobs legislation to pass the General Assembly this session:

House Enrolled Act 1001 - outlines a balanced budget, which expands funding for
K-12 education including full day kindergarten, forecasts a $1 billion surplus by fiscal year 2013 and does not raise taxes on Hoosiers.

House Enrolled Act 1005 - establishes the Dinosaur Building Tax Credit, which lowers requirements deeming a building vacant so businesses will repurpose warehouses and factories in order to employ more Hoosiers. 

House Enrolled Act 1006 - creates a one-stop-shop for new and existing businesses; promotes economic development locally and regionally; and encourages coordination between universities, high schools and state agencies to create an entrepreneurial curriculum.

House Enrolled Act 1007 - allows enhanced abatement schedules and hiring incentives to encourage local job growth; and extends tax incentive options for locals to exempt enterprise information technology in order to attract high-tech companies offering high paying jobs.

House Enrolled Act 1251 - establishes the Young Entrepreneurs Program for students graduating from university entrepreneurship programs in Indiana. This program will promote economic development and business opportunities for young entrepreneurs and communities across the state.

The Republicans' Strengthen Indiana Plan has delivered on its promises to protect Hoosier taxpayers, promote job creation and expand education opportunities. Indiana is overcoming recent economic obstacles in the most expedient fashion by creating private sector jobs, incorporating more choices in our state's education system to remain competitive nationally and abroad, and by keeping Indiana in the black to avoid burdensome tax increases.

I encourage you to contact me with your questions or concerns by e-mail to h67@in.gov or by phone at (317) 234-3827. As always, I feel privileged to represent you and look forward to hearing from you.

State Representative Randy Frye

District 67

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