As a freshman lawmaker, this year's budget-writing session was an exciting time for me to put my conservative fiscal principles into practice and find ways to provide tax relief to Hoosiers. Thanks to Indiana's strong economic outlook and track record of living within its means, we were able to fund important services, pay down our already low debt and maintain reserves, all while making sure Hoosiers kept more of their hard-earned money. I'm happy to report that Indiana's new state budget delivers big wins for hardworking Hoosiers, our active-duty military and parents.
Indiana's two-year budget is crafted and passed during odd-numbered years. In April, we wrapped up our four-month long legislative session. The state's budget, which took effect July 1, is expected to save taxpayers more than $430 million over the next two years thanks to various tax relief measures. Indiana is accelerating individual state income tax cuts, so we'll have one of the lowest rates in the nation by 2027.
I co-authored legislation to support our active-duty military members by providing them a complete income tax exemption starting next year, regardless of their deployment status. Previously, members were only eligible for a $5,000 state income tax deduction. Indiana now joins neighboring states in offering a full exemption, which could help attract those in the armed services and their families to settle in our state and join our workforce. I'm always ready to support our military members and veterans, and I'll continue looking for ways to help as we move forward.
As a father and educator, I know that the rising costs of textbooks put a strain on families. To help provide relief, I supported legislation to ensure Hoosier parents will no longer pay curricular fees, including textbooks, iPads and Chromebooks. Families were spending hundreds of dollars in fees before each school year, and it's great to see that burden lifted. Before acting this session, the state only covered the cost of textbooks for who qualify for free and reduced-price meals.
With liberal policies at the federal level promoting excessive spending and hurting our pocketbooks, here in Indiana, we will keep our state's fiscal health on track and remain accountable to Hoosier taxpayers. To learn more about Indiana's balanced, two-year budget, visit IndianaHouseRepublicans.com. To stay connected, please sign up to receive my email newsletter at in.gov/h54 or contact me anytime at h54@iga.in.gov or 317-232-9850.
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State Rep. Cory Criswell (R-Middletown) represents House District 54,
which includes portions of Hancock, Henry, Rush and Shelby counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
