The economy was not the only disaster of 2009. In January, a devastating ice storm swept through Southern Indiana knocking out electricity and heat for weeks for nearly 70,000 Hoosiers. As Evansville thawed out, things began to heat up at the Statehouse as we tried to work out the state's budget. In June, we had to reconvene for a "special" session in order to pass the state budget. The "special" session was necessary because Indiana's declining state revenues required additional cuts to the budget proposed in the last days of the regular session, ending April 29th. By the slimmest of time, we were able to pass a two year budget on June 30th, the last day the legislature could act before state government shut down. Indiana stands as one of a few states that passed a balanced budget without raising taxes. This makes us attractive to new businesses and able to create Hoosier jobs. In the midst of the chilly fall, Governor Daniels made a tough but smart decision by cancelling the state's contract with IBM and their management of the state's welfare eligibility program. The Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), is in charge of qualifying and dispensing Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), Medicaid and food stamps to needy Hoosiers. The governor cited too many delays and errors with IBM as the reasons for ending the contract. The state has since moved to a hybrid system that uses the face to face contact of the old system and the computer technology of the new system. In November, the agenda for the upcoming legislative session was announced. Top priority is to make the property tax caps permanent by writing them in the state's constitution. If we are to weather this recession, we must be frugal spenders and continue to tighten our belts, making Indiana attractive for new businesses and jobs. Finally, we need to enact ethics reform, sending a clear message to Hoosiers that their elected officials are above reproach and not unduly influenced by paid lobbyists. As the year wraps up, the start of session is merely a week away, and I am anxious to reconvene for a new year and a new agenda. As always feel free to take part in the legislative process by coming up to the Statehouse for session or watch it from your computer at http://www.in.gov/legislative/session/video.html. I also need your input, so feel free to contact me by phone, e-mail, fax or mail. Have a wonderful and blessed New Year. Phone: 800-382-9841 E-mail: h78@in.gov Fax: 317-232-7644 Mail: 200 W. Washington St. Indianapolis, IN 46204 |
