I promised to adopt a structurally balanced state budget with no tax increases. In fact, we were able to increase funding for K-12 education in our budget-0.5% next year and one percent in 2013. With our budget alone, Indiana is making waves. None of our neighboring states can say they have accomplished what we were able to this session. But I won't stop there. I also promised a more transparent government. This year we passed legislation that will require state and local governments, public schools and universities to post financial data on a user-friendly website. I believe in giving Hoosiers the option to see where their hard-earned taxpayer dollars are going. In addition, before session, we installed several cameras in committee rooms so that Hoosiers are able to watch, not only session live, but also a committee hearing if you choose to do so. Not everyone from our community can make the trip up to the Statehouse, so we are bringing the Statehouse to you. Job creation was also a huge part of this year's legislative session. We passed legislation to help Hoosier business owners by enhancing the Venture Capital Investment Tax Credit to improve access to capital for fast-growing companies. We also created a one-stop-shop to help new and existing business complete-what can be very complicated-paperwork. Furthermore, we found ways to work with local governments to provide economic development tools to stimulate job growth within communities. Along those lines, we created incentives for businesses to renovate or remodel existing buildings to not only create jobs, but also help communities get rid of eyesores that can deplete property value. We took the necessary steps this session to further foster job growth in communities all over the state. Since an educated workforce also helps promote job creation, it is imperative that we touch on the subject of education. As the vice-chair of the House Education Committee, I wrote to you a lot this session to update you on what education reform legislation was making its way through the legislature. I am happy to report that we were able to pass legislation that will reward our quality teachers-and believe me, there are many of them-focus the dollar on the classroom and expand education options for Hoosier families. But, again, we didn't stop there. We also passed legislation that removes the federal mandate, requiring all Hoosiers and business owners to purchase health care plans. This is a huge burden on individuals and businesses; we felt it necessary to remove the mandate. We also adopted meaningful immigration reform and opposed cap and trade legislation-both issues that the federal government fails to address, but we felt was necessary to address on the state level. Overall, session was a success. We delivered on our promises we made to Hoosiers. But my work isn't over. I will be around this summer and fall, preparing for next session. So please don't hesitate to contact me. Let me know if you think there is something we need to address next session. I am here to serve you- rain or shine, when I'm in Corydon or Indianapolis. -30- Rep. Rhonda Rhoads serves House District 70. She also serves as the Vice-Chair of the Education Committee, along with serving as a member of the Family, Children and Human Affairs and the Local Government Committees. |
