Rep. Shonkwiler: Legislation prioritizing energy affordability heads to governor

Posted by: Kendall Macri  | Thursday, February 19, 2026

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 19, 2026) – State Rep. Alaina Shonkwiler's (R-Noblesville) legislation promoting utility affordability and transparency is going to the governor for consideration as a new law.

"Hoosiers deserve reliable and affordable utilities," Shonkwiler said. "House Enrolled Act 1002 updates our regulatory framework for ratemaking, holds utilities accountable for the outcomes Hoosiers want, and gives residents options and tools for managing payments. Our goal is to work with utilities to address needed improvements and continue upholding our five pillars of energy: reliability, resilience, stability, affordability and environmental sustainability."

House Enrolled Act 1002 adds performance-based accountability to ensure utilities are hitting targets aimed at reducing costs and increasing reliability. It provides tools for managing costs and strengthens consumer protections by automatically enrolling low-income Hoosiers eligible for Indiana's energy assistance program in levelized billing with clear disclosures and an opt-out option.

Shonkwiler said the legislation also adds protections for struggling Hoosiers by prohibiting service disconnections during the hottest and coldest days of the year and requires utilities to offer financial assistance programs. 

To learn more and follow session, visit iga.in.gov.

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State Rep. Alaina Shonkwiler (R-Noblesville) represents House District 29,
which includes a portion of Hamilton County.
Click 
here to download a high-resolution photo.