STATEHOUSE (July 1, 2021) – State Reps. Dale DeVon (R-Granger) and Jake Teshka (R-South Bend) said Hoosiers should be aware of several new state laws effective July 1, including the new state budget and those supporting law enforcement, small businesses and schools.
"Lawmakers worked hard to deliver big wins for Hoosiers on a wide range of issues," DeVon said. "We're rolling out a lot of new funding to support our communities, including increasing teacher pay, encouraging economic development, improving broadband service and increasing public safety."
"Ensuring our schools have the resources to prepare the next generation for success is always a top priority, and the new state budget reflects our strong support for students and teachers," said Teshka, a member of the House Education Committee. "The significant education funding will go a long way toward increasing teacher pay and catching students up who may have fallen behind during the pandemic."
Several new and notable laws include:
Funding Hoosier Priorities
Indiana's next two-year, $37 billion state budget reduces taxpayer-funded debt by over $1 billion, and provides opportunities for future tax cuts and reforms. House Enrolled Act 1001 funds critical government services and proven programs while making historic investments in K-12 education, broadband and economic development.
Supporting Law Enforcement
House Enrolled Act 1006, co-authored by DeVon and Teshka, directed $70 million to improve law enforcement training facilities and programs. The law received bipartisan support and total backing from law enforcement to give police more tools to vet candidates and hire the best officers. Under the new state budget, departments can also apply for grants to purchase car and body-worn cameras.
Protecting In-Person Worship
Religious gatherings are defined as essential, and Senate Enrolled Act 263 ensures the government cannot restrict the right to worship in-person during public emergencies. Other church services like food pantries, daycare or educational classes can also not be more restricted than other essential services.
Prioritizing Students, Teachers
K-12 education will receive a historic, $1.9 billion increase in funding over the next two years as part of Indiana's biennial state budget to support students and teacher pay raises. A new, $150 million grant program established in House Enrolled Act 1008 is already in effect and supports students who are at risk of falling behind or scored below academic standards because of disruptions caused by COVID-19.
Visit iga.in.gov for more information on these and other new laws.
-30-
State Rep. Dale DeVon (R-Granger) represents House District 5, which includes portions of St. Joseph County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Jake Teshka (R-South Bend) represents House District 7, which includes the majority of St. Joseph County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
