STATEHOUSE (April 9, 2026) – The 2026 legislative session concluded with the passage of several new laws aimed at lowering everyday costs, streamlining government and giving families and communities opportunities to thrive, according to State Reps. Cory Criswell (R-Middletown) and Lindsay Patterson (R-Brookville).
During session, lawmakers approved measures focused on affordability, tax relief and supporting Indiana’s continued economic growth. These new laws build on Indiana’s strong fiscal position and commitment to responsible budgeting.
Criswell said a major theme this year was cutting through red tape whether in housing, energy, government or education. All House Republican priority bills passed both chambers and were signed into law by the governor.
"I am proud of the work we accomplished this year to reduce unnecessary government, support residents and strengthen communities across the state," Criswell said. "I encourage anyone with ideas or concerns to reach out as we begin preparing for the next legislative session."
New laws passed during the 2026 legislative session include:
• House Enrolled Act 1002: Prioritizes energy affordability by adding performance-based accountability to ensure utilities are hitting targets aimed at reducing costs and improving services for Hoosier ratepayers. It expands the use of levelized billing plans for low-income customers to ensure more consistent monthly payments and adds additional protections for Hoosiers.
• House Enrolled Act 1003: Eliminates, sunsets or restructures dozens of redundant or inactive state boards and commissions to streamline government, improve efficiency and protect taxpayer dollars.
• House Enrolled Act 1177: Increases access to child care by expanding the state’s employer child care tax credit for businesses that offer child care options to employees. The credit can be used to help pay for costs such as operating or contracting with a child care facility, employee training and higher wages for staff.
• Senate Enrolled Act 1: Targets waste, fraud and abuse in taxpayer-funded assistance programs. Additionally, the new law mandates verification of immigration status and income for all Medicaid and SNAP recipients and requires more frequent eligibility checks to ensure assistance goes to those who need it most.
Patterson said that overall, more than 90% of all bills passed this session received bipartisan support, with nearly half passing unanimously.
"Our goal throughout session was to listen to constituents and act on the issues that matter most," Patterson said. "These new laws are designed to lower costs for families, improve quality of life and ensure Indiana remains competitive and strong."
Click here to learn more about these and other new laws passed in the 2026 legislative session or visit iga.in.gov.
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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.
State Rep. Lindsay Patterson (R-Brookville) represents House District 55, which includes
all of Fayette, Franklin and Union counties, and portions of Decatur, Ripley and Rush counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
