STATEHOUSE (June 26, 2024) – As summer kicks off in Indiana, State Reps. Craig Haggard (R-Mooresville) and Peggy Mayfield (R-Martinsville) want Hoosiers to know about a wide range of new state laws taking effect July 1.
Haggard 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.
"Ensuring the safety and well-being of our veterans and military members, who sacrificed their time and skills to secure Indiana's freedoms, is essential," said Haggard, a member of the House Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee. "Implementing a Green Alert system will add another tool to help those in crisis."
Mayfield said lawmakers took action on a wide range of hot-button issues this year like safeguarding Hoosier farmland. To help protect Indiana's farmland and food supply chain, individuals or entities associated with foreign adversaries like Russia and China will be banned from purchasing or leasing agricultural land, and mineral, water or riparian rights. China, Russia, North Korea and Iran will also be prevented from purchasing or leasing land within a 10-mile radius of military installations.
"Protecting our agricultural land and food supply is a top priority," Mayfield said. "Preventing bad actors from acquiring land rights in Indiana ensures these resources remain secure."
Haggard and Mayfield 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.
Curbing Surprise Ambulance Bills
More Hoosiers will soon be protected from surprise bills from out-of-network ambulance providers. Health insurance companies will be required to reimburse ambulance providers regardless of whether the provider was in- or out-of-network. Copays and deductible payments for out-of-network services will also be capped at in-network rates.
Visit iga.in.gov to learn more about these and other new state laws.
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State Rep. Craig Haggard (R-Mooresville) represents House District 57,
which includes portions of Hendricks, Johnson and Morgan counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Peggy Mayfield (R-Martinsville) represents House District 60,
which includes portions of Johnson, Morgan and Monroe counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
