STATEHOUSE - State Rep. Matthew Lehman (R-Berne) began his legislative career today as a new member of the 116th General Assembly during Organization Day ceremonies. Rep. Lehman, one of eight new Republican members of the House, represents District 79.

"I am honored to be a member of the Indiana House of Representatives with the pleasant task of working for the good people of District 79 and the state of Indiana," Rep. Lehman said. "Protecting taxpayers and Hoosier families is my top priority. I will work to make sure the state has an honestly balanced budget with no gimmicks and no new taxes. I also will work to maintain our economic energy and improve educational opportunities for Hoosier students."

Indiana Supreme Court Justice Frank Sullivan Jr. presided over the swearing-in of the 100 members of the House.

Organization Day is traditionally a ceremonial affair, with the swearing-in being the important event. The General Assembly convenes Jan. 7.

"This General Assembly is working in trying times," Rep. Lehman said, "but we also have wonderful opportunities. We have the ability to protect taxpayers through a responsible budget and by continuing the SJR 1 discussion. We can keep our economy vibrant through incentives for adding high-paying jobs to our workforce as well as retaining those we already have. And we have the opportunity to help high-performing high school students continue their educations and to reward teachers for voluntarily taking and passing competency tests in their areas of teaching. I am excited to get to work."

Rep. Lehman can be reached by e-mail at H79@in.gov, by telephone at 1-800-382-9841 or by mail at the Statehouse, 200 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46204.

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