STATEHOUSE (July 6, 2023) – New state laws supporting Hoosiers and backed by local lawmakers during the 2023 legislative session are now in effect.
"Families, especially with multiple children, will receive much-needed relief as textbook and curricular fees can add up quickly," said State Rep. Jennifer Meltzer (R-Shelbyville). "Inflation continues to affect everyday Hoosiers and I'll continue to support ways to ensure they keep more of their hard-earned money."
Most legislation passed during the recent session took effect at the beginning of the state's new fiscal year on July 1.
Under the state's newly passed state budget, taxpayers are expected to save an estimated $430 million over the next two years via tax relief passed during the legislative session. Thanks to the acceleration of individual state income tax cuts, hardworking Hoosiers will have one of the lowest rates in the nation by 2027. Indiana's K-12 spending makes up about half of the state's $44.6 billion budget, and lawmakers supported increasing student funding by 10% over the next two years. In addition, parents will no longer pay textbook and curricular fees.
“This session, I supported legislation that prioritized taxpayers and Hoosier families, including accelerating cuts to Indiana's individual income tax rate," said State Rep. Cory Criswell (R-Middletown). "While other states operate in the red, Indiana remains in a strong fiscal position to keep our state’s economy moving forward in the right direction."
Local lawmakers also highlighted the following new laws:
Providing Tax Relief for Homeowners
Property tax dollars are collected and spent locally, and help pay for schools, police and fire protection, and other local government services. To help counter the rise in local property tax bills, the state took actions to provide about $100 million in property tax relief for homeowners beginning next year. Hoosiers can expect a temporary increase to the supplemental homestead tax deduction and additional limits on property tax levy growth.
Fighting Drug Abuse
Xylazine, also known as "tranq," is an animal sedative linked to an increasing number of drug overdose deaths in Indiana. According to Meltzer, author of the legislation, coroners will test for this substance in any confirmed or suspected overdose deaths, giving the state valuable data to begin taking action to help Hoosiers struggling with addiction.
Helping Hoosiers with Disabilities
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, nearly 80% of those with disabilities are unemployed. State Rep. Robb Greene (R-Shelbyville) said a new law gives more Hoosiers the dignity and independence that comes from meaningful work by providing employers with tax credits for hiring those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
"Lifting up Hoosiers with disabilities is one of my top priorities," said Greene, who authored language ultimately included in House Enrolled Act 1454. "This legislation is meant to empower those with either a physical or an intellectual or developmental disability (IDD) and support them in finding a job where they can contribute their skills and talents. It's about giving them opportunities to make a better life for themselves and be valued in our workforce."
Visit iga.in.gov to learn more about these and other new state laws now in effect.
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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. Robb Greene (R-Shelbyville) represents House District 47,
which includes portions of Johnson and Shelby counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Jennifer Meltzer (R-Shelbyville) represents House District 73,
which includes portions of Bartholomew, Decatur, Jennings and Shelby counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
