STATEHOUSE (June 26, 2024) – As summer kicks off in Indiana, so do a wide range of new state laws starting July 1, according to State Rep. Bruce Borders (R-Jasonville).
Borders said most new laws passed during the 2024 legislative session take effect July 1, including boosting student reading proficiency. Currently, 1 in 5 Hoosier third graders struggle to read. Data shows that individuals with low literacy earn less money, have poorer health and go to prison at higher rates than their peers. To improve reading rates, the state will strengthen its remediation efforts and offer more targeted classroom support starting in second grade. Schools will also be required to offer summer courses to help with reading beginning this year.
"Improving reading proficiency in our youngest learners is important for their future success," Borders said. "By strengthening remediation efforts and offering classroom support in second grade, we can help more students develop strong literacy skills."
Borders also highlighted the following new laws:
Expanding Work-Based Learning
More Hoosier high school students can apply for a Career Scholarship Account to pursue internships, apprenticeships, and other work-based learning opportunities. The $5,000 scholarship covers certain expenses like training, career coaching, driver's education, certification and credentialing exams. Visit in.gov/tos/csa or call 317-232-0723 for more information.
Protecting Minors Online
Adult-oriented websites will be required to verify users are at least 18 years old before allowing them to access content. These companies must also delete users' personal data immediately after verifying their age. Parents and the Indiana Attorney General's Office will be able to pursue civil action for violations.
Increasing Election Security
To help protect Indiana's elections, officials will have more tools to maintain accurate and up-to-date voter registration lists. Also, proof of citizenship will be required for individuals registering with temporary IDs and first-time voters will be required to provide proof of residency.
Visit iga.in.gov to learn more about these and other new state laws. Constituents can contact Borders about legislation or to request help navigating state government at in.gov/45 or by calling 317-232-9600 or 800-382-9841.
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State Rep. Bruce Borders (R-Jasonville) represents House District 45,
which includes all of Greene and Sullivan counties, and portions of Daviess, Knox and Vigo counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
