STATEHOUSE (June 26, 2024) – As summer kicks off in Indiana, State Reps. Cindy Ledbetter (R-Newburgh) and Tim O'Brien (R-Evansville) want Hoosiers to know about a wide range of new state laws taking effect July 1.
O'Brien said most new laws passed during the 2024 legislative session take effect July 1, including boosting the emergency medical services workforce. Indiana and the rest of the nation face a growing shortage of emergency medical services personnel. A new comprehensive study of the state’s 800 EMS providers will help explore ways to improve services, recruiting and training, and address workforce challenges.
"When a medical crisis happens, we need reliable emergency medical services to respond," said O'Brien, who authored the new law. "This legislation could go a long way toward ensuring every 911 call is answered quickly, and that Hoosiers know help is on the way when they need it most."
Ledbetter said lawmakers took action on a wide range of hot-button issues this year like 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.
"The last thing Hoosiers should worry about during a medical emergency is the potential cost of an ambulance ride," Ledbetter said. "This new law will alleviate that stress by ensuring health insurers cover costs while limiting copays and deductibles."
O'Brien and Ledbetter also highlighted the following new laws:
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.
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.
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State Rep. Cindy Ledbetter (R-Newburgh) represents House District 75,
which includes portions of Gibson, Pike and Warrick counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Tim O'Brien (R-Evansville) represents House District 78,
which includes portions of Vanderburgh and Warrick counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
