Fall may have just begun, but the next legislative session will be here before we know it. Many interim study committees are continuing to meet, and soon we will be evaluating our findings from these committees to help determine our priorities for next session. It has been said that “an educated citizenry is a vital requisite for our survival as a free people.” While in context, Thomas Jefferson may have been referring to the federal government, I believe that this applies here in Indiana as well. In order to maintain the strength of our democracy and a confidence in our leaders, it is imperative that everyone have convenient access to information about what goes on in our state capitol. For those living in the Indianapolis media market, it is fairly easy to stay up-to-date on the latest Statehouse news. On a daily basis, the major news stations like WTHR, WISH TV, Fox59 and WRTV are reporting live from the Statehouse and bringing the most recent happenings to their viewers. But, what about those of us who live outside the Indianapolis media market? Luckily, many of these stations stream their news broadcasts on their websites, but there are also a variety of other ways to stay informed. For example, one of my favorite sources for information is Inside INdiana Business. In addition to their website, they also have a TV show called Inside Indiana Business with Gerry Dick, which airs on local PBS stations throughout the state. In fact, you may have seen me on their show last session talking about the use of natural gas as a motor fuel in Indiana. You can also sign up to receive daily email updates from them by visiting http://www.insideindianabusiness.com/inside_edge.asp. Their strong emphasis on business news is important because almost every year we have legislation that has a direct impact on the business community. Another great online source for information is IndyPolitics.org, which seeks to provide political news and analysis far beyond what Hoosiers would be able to obtain locally. They cover the happenings in Indianapolis, the surrounding townships as well as the doughnut counties and have over time built a strong rapport among many state leaders. If you prefer to get your news via radio, 93.1 FM WIBC is also another great source for information. If you have visited Monument Circle in downtown Indianapolis recently, WIBC is the station with the big news ticker right on the circle. I enjoy listening to the wide variety of shows available on their station on my way to and from the Statehouse, but the nice thing is, even if you do not get that station where you live, you can still listen live online at any time. While these are all great sources for information, sometimes it is also good to go straight to the source. The Legislature aims to remain as transparent as possible by live-streaming our activities each day that we are in session as well as every committee hearing on the Indiana General Assembly website. This allows you to not only watch the votes on each bill as they come in, but also listen to both sides of the debate so that you know exactly what is at stake with the passage or defeat of each piece of legislation. Press releases directly from our offices at the Statehouse are another great way to stay informed. While these are sent directly to the media, they are also all posted on our website. They can be found in the media room at http://www.in.gov/legislative/house_republicans/. While visiting the website, be sure to also sign up for my e-newsletter for the latest news! As we start to approach the beginning of another session, I hope that this will allow you easier access to information about the legislative decisions which impact you the most. In addition, if you ever have any questions, please do not hesitate to give me a call at 317-234-9380. -30- |
