STATEHOUSE (March 25, 2026) – The 2026 legislative session concluded with the passage of several new laws aimed at lowering everyday costs, streamlining government and giving families and communities opportunities to thrive, according to local lawmakers.
State Rep. Bruce Borders (R-Jasonville) said during session, lawmakers approved measures focused on affordability, tax relief and supporting Indiana’s continued economic growth. These new laws build on Indiana’s strong fiscal position and commitment to responsible budgeting.
"This legislative session was about protecting taxpayers and making government more efficient," Borders said. "By working to reduce costs, eliminate burdensome bureaucracy and providing tax relief, we took action to support Hoosier families and promote long-term growth across our state."
State Rep. Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute) said a major theme this year was cutting through red tape whether in housing, energy, government or education. All House Republican priority bills passed both chambers and were signed into law by the governor.
"We worked hard this session to deliver meaningful results for Hoosiers by keeping costs down, improving government efficiency and supporting working families," Heaton said. "Making sure utilities and energy are more affordable was a key part of that effort so families aren't burdened by high costs."
New laws passed during the 2026 legislative session include:
• House Enrolled Act 1002: Prioritizes energy affordability by adding performance-based accountability to ensure utilities are hitting targets aimed at reducing costs and improving services for Hoosier ratepayers.
• House Enrolled Act 1408: Establishes safeguards for adolescents on social media by requiring parental consent, giving parents the ability to better monitor social media activity and restricting certain addictive or harmful features.
• Senate Enrolled Act 243: Aligns with President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill to deliver tax cuts for hardworking Hoosiers. Under the law, Hoosiers can deduct qualifying tips and overtime pay from their state taxable income for 2026.
• Senate Enrolled Act 78: Prohibits students from using wireless communication devices throughout the school day to cut down on classroom distractions.
State Rep. Tim Yocum (R-Clinton) said that overall, more than 90% of all bills passed this session received bipartisan support, with nearly half passing unanimously.
"As your state representative, I was proud to support efforts aimed at lowering costs, reducing government and prioritizing our youth," Yocum said. "These are important steps to ensuring more Hoosiers have the opportunity to thrive in our state."
Click here to learn more about these and other new laws passed in the 2026 legislative session or visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Bruce Borders (R-Jasonville) represents House District 45,
which includes all of Greene and Sullivan counties, and portions of Daviess, Knox and Vigo counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute) represents House District 46,
which includes all of Owen County, and portions of Clay, Monroe and Vigo counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Tim Yocum (R-Clinton) represents House District 42, which includes
all of Parke and Vermillion counties, and portions of Clay, Fountain and Vigo counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
