STATEHOUSE (July 8, 2022) – Local lawmakers said Hoosiers should be aware of several new and notable state laws, which are now in effect.
"In addition to the largest tax cut in state history, we worked to return money back to taxpayers by cutting income taxes and lowering utility bills," said State Rep. Dale DeVon (R-Granger). "Indiana's economy is running strong and I look forward to building on our efforts as we keep Hoosiers and the communities we serve top of mind."
"Whether it was taking action to empower parents or protect free speech on college campuses, we stood up for Hoosiers and their rights," said State Rep. Jake Teshka (R-South Bend), a member of the House Education Committee. "Moving forward, I'll continue to keep my focus on doing what's right by those I represent."
Hoosiers should be aware of several new laws, which were passed during the 2022 legislative session and took effect on July 1:
Putting Taxpayers First
Hoosiers could save over $1 billion annually through a new tax-cut package that will reduce the individual income tax rate to 2.9% over time, and eliminate the Utility Receipts Tax, saving residents $200 million a year on utility bills. Additionally, taxpayers are receiving $545 million via automatic taxpayer refunds this year.
Empowering Hoosier Parents
When it comes to education, input and ideas from parents, students, teachers and community members are important. Now, school boards will have to allow time for public comments at all open meetings, ensuring parents' voices are heard.
Increasing Election Security
Indiana will double its number of election audits after each general election. All Indiana electronic voting machines will be required to be equipped with a voter-verifiable paper audit trail by the 2024 election. Every voter will be able to verify their ballot on a printout before casting their vote. This step will offer assurances that electronically recorded votes are accurate.
"Election security is a top priority and with this new law, we can protect the integrity of the process and maintain voter confidence," said State Rep. Tim Wesco (R-Osceola), chair of the House Committee on Elections and Apportionment. "There are so many people working behind the scenes to make sure our elections are fair and reflect the will of voters. With these additional safeguards, we can continue to cast our ballots with the certainty that our votes count."
Supporting Free Speech
Indiana public college and university students will be able to express themselves across campuses by the elimination of free speech zones. These zones are typically regulated and sectioned areas in remote locations, and infringe on the First Amendment right protecting speech in public areas.
Visit iga.in.gov for more information on these and other new laws.
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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.
State Rep. Tim Wesco (R-Osceola) represents House District 21,
which includes portions of Elkhart and St. Joseph counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
