STATEHOUSE (June 25, 2024) – As summer kicks off in Indiana, local lawmakers want Hoosiers to know about a wide range of new state laws taking effect July 1.
State Rep. Wendy McNamara (R-Evansville) said most new laws passed during the 2024 legislative session take effect July 1, including safeguarding Hoosier farmland. 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.
"Protecting our farmland and food supply chain is a top priority for Indiana," McNamara said. "This has been a growing problem in our state, and this new law will stop foreign adversaries from controlling some of Hoosiers' most vital assets."
State Rep. Tim O'Brien (R-Evansville) said lawmakers took action on a wide range of hot-button issues this year like 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."
Local lawmakers also highlighted the following new laws:
Stepping Up For Public Retirees
Indiana's nearly 90,000 retired public servants like law enforcement and teachers will receive a 13th check to help cover cost-of-living expenses. Existing, dedicated funds will be used to make a one-time, post-retirement payment, which will average about $360 per recipient.
Expanding Work-Based Learning
More Hoosier high school students can apply for a Career Scholarship Account to pursue internships, apprenticeships, and other work-based learning opportunities. The $5,000 scholarship covers certain expenses like training, career coaching, driver's education, certification and credentialing exams. Visit in.gov/tos/csa or call 317-232-0723 for more information.
"We want all students to be successful and many want to pursue a career outside of college," said State Rep. Matt Hostettler (R-Patoka), who co-authored the new law. "These scholarships open more opportunities for them to get on-site experience and network with professionals before graduation."
Visit iga.in.gov to learn more about these and other new state laws.
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State Rep. Matt Hostettler (R-Patoka) represents House District 64,
which includes portions of Gibson, Knox and Vanderburgh counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Wendy McNamara (R-Evansville) represents House District 76,
which includes all of Posey County and a portion of Vanderburgh County.
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.
