Novak celebrates ceremonial signing of HEA 1048, boosting support for volunteer firefighters

Yesterday, April 29, State Rep. Randy Novak (D-Michigan City) joined Gov. Mike Braun, firefighters and key stakeholders for the ceremonial signing of House Enrolled Act 1048 — legislation long overdue in recognizing the dedicated men and women who volunteer each day to protect Indiana communities.

HEA 1048 increases the yearly minimum clothing and vehicle allowance for volunteer fire department members from $100 to $250 each, helping offset the cost of essential out-of-pocket expenses incurred in service.

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Novak released the following statement:

"Yesterday was a great day for Indiana's volunteer firefighters, and it's been a long time coming. Standing here with the very people who put on the gear and run toward danger — that's what this is all about. This increase may seem modest, but it sends the message that Indiana stands behind the over 13,000 citizens who volunteer to keep our communities safe.

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"I'm grateful to have this legislation signed into law, and to everyone who testified, reached out, and shared their stories along the way. Your voices moved this across the finish line. To my House co-authors, Reps. Chuck Moseley, Steve Bartels, and Jim Pressel, and our Senate Sponsors, thank you for your partnership.

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"There is more work to be done to support all of our first responders, and I remain committed to continuing that effort. Today, we celebrate,  and tomorrow, we keep moving forward."

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HEA 1048 passed with full bipartisan support during the 2026 legislative session.

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GiaQuinta issues statement on SCOTUS Voting Rights Act decision

Today, the U.S. Supreme Court voted 6-3 to require Louisiana to redraw its congressional maps to undo efforts to give Black voters equal representation following the 2020 census. The most recent map gave Louisiana, where Black residents represent roughly 33% of the state's population, two majority-Black districts. A Republican-backed lawsuit argued that the maps created districts based on race, which violates the 14th Amendment. The court ultimately agreed, furthering diluting Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Indiana House Democratic Leader Phil GiaQuinta (D-Fort Wayne) issued the following statement on behalf of House Democrats:

"Hoosiers and Americans care deeply about fair play and fair representation.

"Last fall, Indiana had a months-long battle over Gov. Braun and House Republicans' attempt to redraw the compact congressional district representing most of Indianapolis, a district with a 31% Black population and 16% Hispanic population. Their proposed map would have split the city into four districts, each stretching from dense urban Indianapolis to rural counties in completely different parts of the state. The map also carved up urban Lake County and other major cities throughout the state, and Hoosiers resoundingly rejected it. They understood that spreading representation across vastly different communities means everyone loses.

"Today's Supreme Court decision will drown out minority voices by allowing partisan maps that carve up majority-Black districts for pure political gain and rigging elections before they even happen. This ruling violates the spirit of the Voting Rights Act. People need to trust that their representatives are truly accountable to them, and map rigging destroys that trust. Indiana House Democrats will keep fighting for fair maps that reflect our communities, not maps drawn to protect one political party."

IBLC decries Supreme Court decision gutting Voting Rights Act

Today, members of the U.S. Supreme Court voted 6-3 to require Louisiana to redraw its congressional maps to undo efforts to give Black voters equal representation following the 2020 census. The most recent map gave Louisiana– where Black residents represent roughly 33% of the state's population – two majority-Black districts. A Trump-backed lawsuit argued that the maps created districts based on race, which the group argued was a violation of the 14th Amendment. The court ultimately agreed, a decision that further guts the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

State Rep. Earl Harris Jr. (D-East Chicago), chair of the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus (IBLC), issued the following statement on behalf of the IBLC:

"The basis of the Voting Rights Act was to ensure that African Americans had both equal access to the polls and equal representation in governmental bodies. Today's decision is yet another blow in a decades-long attack on the Voting Rights Act and on minority Americans' ability to have a voice in their communities and national government.

"This decision will not just impact Louisiana. Throughout the country, Louisiana v. Callais will be used to silence minority voices and uphold the violent white supremacy that has marred our nation from its inception.

"This was an opportunity for the Supreme Court to affirm every American's right to be fairly represented in their government. Instead, they chose to take our country back decades. The harm that this decision will cause cannot be overstated. This is a sad day for our democracy, but the IBLC is committed to continuing our work to advocate for fair maps that give everyone a voice."

Porter comments on Attendant Care audit

Recently, the Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) announced an audit of the Attendant Care program, putting critical support for developmentally disabled children and adults at risk. 

State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis) issued the following statement on the audit:

“This audit is evidence that Republicans don’t know what they’re doing. They’re in charge. They overpaid providers. But somehow the fault lies with the Attendant Care program. Now the FSSA is on this seek and destroy mission.

“For two years, the FSSA has attacked the Attendant Care program. But the program is a genuine win-win. Indiana’s most vulnerable residents can remain in their homes and receive care from their loved ones, rather than being forced into high-cost facilities. This approach is not only more compassionate. It’s significantly more cost-effective for the state. But the FSSA continues to put this vital lifeline at risk. 

“Threatening providers with $200 million in clawbacks, while simultaneously requiring pre-approval of billings before payment is issued, risks driving these providers out of business. The result won’t be a more efficient, better system. It will be families left without care or options. 

“I reject this approach to ‘blame all for the actions of the few.’ If fraud exists, pursue those bad actors. But we cannot slash and burn an entire program that vulnerable people depend upon. 

“The correct course of action is a comprehensive performance audit of the Attendant Care program. We don’t need a politically motivated audit that seeks a predetermined outcome. Indiana should pursue bad actors, but we can’t lose sight of those lives that depend on these life-saving services.”

GiaQuinta and Miller issue statement on proposed quarry project

House Democratic Leader Phil GiaQuinta (D-Fort Wayne) and State Rep. Kyle Miller (D-Fort Wayne) issued a joint statement on the proposed limestone quarry project in Allen County:

"We have heard from many constituents across Allen County opposed to the proposed limestone quarry, and we want them to know their voices matter. We join them in opposition to the proposed development.

"We support economic development that creates jobs and strengthens our region. But development must be compatible with the communities it surrounds. This proposal raises legitimate questions about air quality, groundwater, wetland preservation, and the long-term character of a neighborhood that includes schools, a major health campus and thousands of families.

"We encourage all affected residents to attend the May 26 public hearing at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum and make their voices heard."

Burton celebrates ceremonial signing of HEA 1307

Today, April 22, State Rep. Alex Burton (D-Evansville) joined Gov. Mike Braun and other stakeholders for the ceremonial signing of House Enrolled Act 1307 – legislation requiring the Department of Child Services (DCS) Ombudsman’s Office to investigate complaints alleging that DCS failed to protect a child’s physical or mental health and safety.

The Ombudsman’s office was established to serve as an independent oversight agency over DCS. HEA 1307 strengthens that mandate by ensuring the office fulfills its oversight role when children’s well-being may be at risk – including children already in the DCS system.

Burton released the following statement on the ceremonial signing:

“This legislation was a direct result of families in Evansville coming to me with similar concerns – feeling unheard and unprotected by the very system meant to help them. With this law, families now have a stronger advocate in their corner and a clearer path to accountability within DCS. My aim is to cultivate Hoosier youth from birth through high school graduation, and this bill is just the start of what's to come.”

Errington presents ‘Distinguished Hoosier Award’ to Muncie non-profit leader Bibi Bahrami

On April 18, Bibi Bahrami, Founder and President of AWAKEN (Afghan Women’s and Kids’ Education and Necessities), was named a Distinguished Hoosier by Gov. Mike Braun. The award was presented by State Rep. Sue Errington (D-Muncie) at AWAKEN’s annual fundraising dinner in Muncie.

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The Distinguished Hoosier award – one of the highest honors that an Indiana citizen may receive – is given to “those who distinguish themselves by significant contributions to their communities, and whose qualities and actions endear them in the hearts and minds of Hoosiers.” Widely recognized as one of Muncie’s greatest humanitarians, Bahrami has helped change the lives of thousands of individuals and has fostered compassion and understanding between the people of Indiana and Afghanistan. 

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“Receiving the Distinguished Hoosier Award is a reflection of a shared journey and commitment,” Bahrami said. “I am deeply grateful to people across Indiana who believe in our mission. I share this recognition with everyone who has stood beside me in serving our communities, especially the AWAKEN board members who have worked alongside me for many years, extending hope to women and children in need in Afghanistan.”

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Bahrami, who came to Indiana in 1986 as a refugee from Afghanistan, founded AWAKEN in 2002 with a group of citizens in the greater Muncie/Yorktown area. Its core mission was, and remains, to help Afghan women, children and families in the Behsood District – a rural area near Jalalabad, Afghanistan – to become healthy, literate and self-sufficient. The organization focuses its work on education, vocational training for women and healthcare.

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In 2021, when the Taliban invaded Kabul and U.S. troops withdrew, Bahrami organized a committee of local citizens to help Afghan refugees who settled in Delaware County. This AWAKEN initiative helped approximately three dozen families find housing, jobs, volunteer positions and other necessities for their new lives in the greater Muncie area.

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Bahrami’s many other contributions to the community include her role as the only woman ever to be elected President of the Islamic Center of Muncie, co-founding of an interfaith coalition, service on the boards of several Muncie not-for-profit organizations and contributions to projects undertaken by Ball State University students and researchers, often as a speaker or interviewee.

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In 2022, Bahrami was a key figure in the documentary film “Stranger at the Gate,” which was nominated for an Academy Award and nearly one dozen film festival awards. The film tells the story of an ex-Marine who planned to bomb the Islamic Center of Muncie but then abandoned his plans, because of the kindness extended to him by Bibi and her husband, Dr. Saber Bahrami.

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“I want to make my city and my state a light and example of hope for humanity,” Bahrami said. “I believe we all have an ethical responsibility to support our communities, to build greater understanding of one another. The Distinguished Hoosier award reflects the power of collective compassion and service to our shared humanity.”

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Errington, a board member of AWAKEN, stated, “Bibi Bahrami is the embodiment of community leadership. Bibi doesn't just talk about building community – she lives it, every single day. Her heart, her drive and her vision have made Muncie a better place for everyone. This award is well-deserved, and frankly, it's just the beginning of the recognition she has earned.”

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Visit awakeninc.org for more information about AWAKEN’s work.

Porter: ‘Braun should suspend the excise tax’

Earlier this month, Gov. Mike Braun announced a 30-day suspension of the 17.2-cent sales tax on gasoline, leaving the 36-cent excise tax in place. According to Braun, legislative action is needed to suspend the excise tax. However, an analysis by the Legislative Services Agency (LSA) found nothing in statutory law or case law to confirm that the governor lacks the authority to suspend excise tax without legislative agreement.

“I support the sales tax suspension, but Hoosiers need more than a couple of dollars,” State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis) said. “Prices have started to fall. But gas is expected to stay above $3 a gallon for the rest of the year. Prices go up like a rocket and come down like a feather. 

“Braun should suspend the excise tax. There’s nothing in the Indiana code or the constitution stopping him, only precedent. Suspending the excise and sales tax would save 53.2 cents a gallon. If you have a 16-gallon tank, that’s around $9 saved. 

“Indiana can afford this tax break, especially with the $700 million the governor will rake in with higher tolls. The ball is in the governor’s court.”

Jackson celebrates Gary Tin Mill restart

State Rep. Carolyn B. Jackson (D-Hammond) today welcomed the announcement by U.S. Steel that the company plans to restart the Gary Tin Mill at Gary Works, a move expected to create approximately 225 jobs for Northwest Indiana workers.

"This is exactly the kind of investment our community deserves," Jackson said. "These good-paying jobs at Gary Works means 225 more families in Northwest Indiana with the stability and security they need. I'm proud to see Gary continue to be a hub for American manufacturing, and I'll keep fighting at the Statehouse to make sure our workers and our Region get every opportunity to thrive."

The restart is expected in early 2027.

Smith applauds release of $200 million for child care, urges lasting solutions for working families

Yesterday, April 16, the State Budget Committee (SBC) approved the augmentation of $200 million to the Financial Responsibility and Opportunity Growth (FROG) Fund for the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program. State Rep. Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) released the following statement: 

"This is great news for Indiana's parents who have struggled to find affordable, quality child care. Our families are feeling the weight of the cost-of-living crisis. According to the Indiana Chamber, families are spending an average of $678 per month for one child’s care. That’s a rent or mortgage payment. 

“In Lake County, the situation has become particularly dire as population growth outpaces the expansion of licensed providers. I hope that increased CCDF enrollment will ensure our parents can go to work knowing their kids are in good hands. I celebrate this step forward and the real difference it will make in the lives of our growing families.

"However, Indiana’s child care crisis did not emerge on its own. The Republican supermajority created the circumstances that necessitated this emergency funding. Our leaders have had ample opportunity to address the provider shortage and lower costs for families. 

"Instead, Braun cut reimbursement rates last September. The result pushed thousands of families onto the waitlist and forced hundreds of providers to close. A simple, one-time infusion of funding will not reopen these providers. Studies from the National Women's Law Center show that child care supply takes years to rebuild after disruption, meaning families feel the consequences long after a cut is reversed.

"The $200 million is, in no small part, an effort to extinguish a fire that Braun himself helped ignite. While this investment will increase CCDF access, it does not address our deeper structural gaps. Indiana needs permanent, structural investments in child care, not a one-time payment to put out a self-started fire.”

Burton: ‘An $18 million price tag to operate an insufficient coal plant is completely irresponsible’

Today, April 16, the Citizens Action Coalition released a statement revealing a prior request from Centerpoint Energy to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) urging the federal government to not reissue an emergency order on a costly coal plant, Culley Unit 2, located in Southwest Indiana.

The U.S. DOE disregarded CenterPoint's pleas, as another order was issued on March 23, 2026, to keep the unit open through at least June 21, 2026.

State Rep. Alex Burton (D-Evansville), a member of the House Utilities, Energy and Telecommunications Committee, issued the following statement on the U.S. DOE's decision to reissue an emergency order:

"Energy costs in Indiana is the leading issue many Hoosiers are facing right now. This decision by the DOE reaffirms that the current strategy at the federal level is costly and negatively impacting Hoosier bank accounts.

"Indiana's energy policy is dependent upon the leadership in D.C. and unfortunately, a misguided and false narrative led to a costly, inefficient and unreliable emergency order to go into effect – completely ignoring CenterPoint's concerns, input from MISO and NERC's assessment. CenterPoint communicated the necessary information clearly, yet they were still ignored.

"An $18 million price tag on an inoperable energy source is completely irresponsible. And is a slap to the face to Hoosier taxpayers as energy costs continue to rise and put even more financial hardship on working Hoosier families.

"Hoosiers want relief, yet the current administration in D.C. is focused on manufactured chaos rather than strategic policies aimed at reducing monthly energy bills, increasing domestic energy generation and improving overall energy reliability.

"This decision was made at the expense of Hoosiers' hard-earned dollars. The federal government claims to put America first, but our energy bills, health, and economy are jeopardized. Our best interests were ignored. This administration is claiming victory at the expense of Hoosier ratepayers – they can and must do better."

Pryor: ‘CCDF funding is a good start, but Republicans got us into this mess’

Today, April 14, Gov. Mike Braun announced that he will augment the Financial Responsibility and Opportunity Growth (FROG) Fund to expand enrollment for Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) vouchers. The CCDF is a critical social service program that provides child care vouchers to over 40,000 low-income families throughout the state. The CCDF has been closed to new children for over a year due to Statehouse Republican budget priorities.

State Rep. Cherrish Pryor (D-Indianapolis), Democratic Floor Leader, issued the following statement regarding the funding diversion:

I'm thankful that Gov. Braun and the Republican supermajority are finally taking action to address this issue, but a lot of damage has already been done. In just one year, 320 child care facilities throughout the state have had to close, leaving working families in the lurch. Indiana Republicans had time to attempt to rig our electoral maps late last year, but couldn't find the will to help our families in need.

"Child care is a vital part of our communities and economy. Well-funded child care provides our children with safe places to learn, grow and thrive, and gives parents an opportunity to join the workforce.

"I'm happy with today's announcements, but Republicans got us into this mess. Moving forward, I plan to work with my colleagues to address the over 21,000 children who will still be left on the CCDF waitlist despite this funding."