STATEHOUSE (Feb. 25, 2026) – State Rep. Lori Goss-Reaves (R-Marion) recently spoke at the National Association of Social Workers Indiana Chapter’s 27th Annual Legislative Education and Advocacy Day at the Statehouse. She highlighted the essential role social workers play in strengthening families and communities across the state. As a professor of social work and MSW generalist field subject matter expert at Indiana Wesleyan University, she thanked social workers for their advocacy, compassion, and dedication to serving Hoosiers.
“Social workers are helping Hoosiers across Indiana navigate some of life’s most difficult challenges,” Goss-Reaves said. “Their insight and dedication are essential as we craft policies that strengthen families, protect children, and expand access to care.”
In her remarks during the event, Goss-Reaves discussed her legislative efforts to improve child protection services, expand mental health resources, and support workforce development to address shortages in critical care professions like home healthcare, nursing, and social work. She highlighted how policies promoting early intervention and community-based services lead to better family outcomes and lower long-term state costs.
To alleviate the social worker shortage and improve mental health access, Goss-Reaves authored a law in 2024 that allows students to sit for their licensing exam during the final semester of their Master's in Social Work program to help them start working sooner.
Goss-Reaves expressed her commitment to continue working with social workers to ensure Indiana’s laws meet the real needs of communities statewide. The LEAD event included a rally, key legislation briefings, legislator welcomes, pre-arranged meetings with lawmakers, and opportunities to observe House and Senate proceedings.
For more information on the event, visit the NASW Indiana Chapter website.
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State Rep. Lori Goss-Reaves (R-Marion) represents House District 31,
which includes portions of Grant and Madison counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
PHOTO CAPTION: State Rep. Lori Goss-Reaves (R-Marion) addresses attendees at the National Association of Social Workers Indiana Chapter’s 27th Annual Legislative Education and Advocacy Day rally at the Indiana Statehouse on Monday, Feb. 23, 2026. Goss-Reaves highlighted the critical role of social workers in supporting families, child welfare, and mental health access across the state.
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