STATEHOUSE (May 14, 2026) – The governor recently ceremonially signed into law legislation that establishes new safety guidelines for high-wake recreation on Indiana's public freshwater lakes according to State Reps. David Abbott (R-Rome City) and Tony Isa (R-Angola).
House Enrolled Act 1062 sets clear guidelines for wake surfing on freshwater lakes to better protect shorelines and enhance safety for Hoosiers. The new law prohibits wake surfing between sunset and sunrise, when reduced visibility raises the risk of collisions and other accidents. Abbott, who authored the new law, said it also restricts wake surfing on smaller lakes unless a speed exemption has been obtained through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. On lakes that already have a speed exemption, Hoosiers must follow the existing rules in place.
"Indiana lakes are a shared resource, and this new law brings a balanced approach to keeping them safe and enjoyable," said Abbott, who serves on the House Natural Resources Committee. "By setting commonsense parameters for wake surfing, especially during low-visibility hours, we're limiting unnecessary risks while protecting boaters. House Enrolled Act 1062 is about making sure that all Hoosiers can spend time on the water with fewer hazards."
Isa, who co-authored HEA 1062, said this new law is designed to help everyone safely enjoy Indiana's lakes during the peak summer months while also protecting shoreline property and promoting the safety of fellow boaters.
"This legislation puts safety first for everyone on the water," Isa said. "By addressing high-wake activities during risk-heavy times, we're taking a proactive step to prevent accidents and protect Hoosiers enjoying our lakes."
HEA 1062 will take effect on July 1, 2026.
To learn more about other new laws passed during the 2026 legislative session, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. David Abbott (R-Rome City) represents House District 18,
which includes portions of Elkhart, Kosciusko, Noble and Whitley counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Tony Isa (R-Angola) represents House District 51,
which includes all of LaGrange County and a portion of Steuben County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
PHOTO CAPTION: State Reps. David Abbott (R-Rome City) (second from left) and Tony Isa (R-Angola) (far left) join Gov. Mike Braun (seated, center) for the ceremonial signing of House Enrolled Act 1062 on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at the Statehouse in Indianapolis. The new law, authored by Abbott and co-authored by Isa, establishes new safety guidelines for high-wake recreation on Indiana's public freshwater lakes. Also pictured are bill co-author State Rep. Carolyn Jackson (D-Hammond) (far right), Col. Steve Hunter, director of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division (center, standing) and Lt. Col. Jason Lee (second from right).
