STATEHOUSE (June 28, 2024) – As summer kicks off in Indiana, so do a wide range of new state laws starting July 1, according to State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).
Bartels said most new laws passed during the 2024 legislative session take effect July 1, including supporting veterans and military members. A new public notification like Indiana's Amber Alert and Silver Alert will soon help first responders locate missing and at-risk veterans and military members. A Green Alert could be issued by the Indiana State Police for veterans, service members, Indiana National Guard members and reservists within 48 hours of the individual being reported missing.
"The Green Alert will be a noteworthy safety net for our current and former military members," said Bartels, who co-authored the new law. "Our veterans have served Hoosiers in tremendous ways and this new alert system will be an instrumental tool in order to help those individuals."
Bartels also highlighted the following new laws:
Stepping Up For Public Retirees
Indiana's nearly 90,000 retired public servants like law enforcement and teachers will receive a 13th check to help cover cost-of-living expenses. Existing, dedicated funds will be used to make a one-time, post-retirement payment, which will average about $360 per recipient.
Boosting Indiana's Teacher Pipeline
Hoosiers who want to make a career switch and go into teaching can apply for Transition to Teaching Scholarships. To be eligible for a one-time, non-renewable scholarship of up to $10,000, applicants pursuing a transition to teaching certification must have a bachelor's degree, agree to obtain an initial practitioner license and teach in Indiana for at least five years.
Increasing Child Care Access
More low-income Hoosier parents will be eligible to access safe and affordable child care that best fits their needs. Full-time child care workers and those training to enter the field will be eligible for help to cover the costs of care for their children or enroll their 4-year-old in a high-quality, pre-K program.
Visit iga.in.gov to learn more about these and other new state laws. Constituents can contact Bartels about legislation or to request help navigating state government at in.gov/h74 or by calling 317-232-9600 or 800-382-9841.
-30-
State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) represents House District 74, which includes
all of Crawford, Perry and Spencer counties, and portions of Dubois and Orange counties.
Click here for a high resolution photo.
