Smith decries bill giving the governor broader authority to deploy a paramilitary police force

Yesterday, Jan. 28, State Rep. Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) voted no on House Bill 1343, which includes a provision further authorizing the establishment of a military police force within the Indiana National Guard. The governor will have the authority to send this police force into any part of the state whenever he or she deems necessary, without the consent of the community or its elected officials.

Smith released the following statement: 

“I am deeply troubled by the power HB 1343 would give our governor. A single person could deploy a paramilitary police force in our streets. This force could be used whenever they deem necessary, opening the door to acts of political retribution. 

“Our Indiana National Guardsmen are brave men and women who want to protect their neighbors, not police them. We don’t need soldiers trained in combat used for law enforcement. That invites confusion, mistrust and danger into our communities. 

“As a Black man, I understand firsthand the tragedies that can occur when interacting with law enforcement. But I am not just concerned about myself; with this provision, I’m worried about all Hoosiers. I do not want our state to become a military state where fear spreads throughout. We have the possibility of being another Minneapolis. I am sure our citizens don’t want this. 

“It’s antithetical to our democracy to give a single individual that type of authority. We are a nation of freedom-loving people. The people of Indiana don’t expect or want a military presence on their doorsteps.” 

HB 1343 heads to the Senate for further consideration. 

Smith supports amendments to cut Hoosiers’ utility bills

Today, House Democrats offered an array of amendments to give Hoosiers financial relief and expand protections for their utility services. The legislation aims to create a levelized billing plan for utility consumers. This year, the Indiana House Democratic Caucus’ agenda is focused on affordability. While House Bill 1002 is a step in the right direction in lowering costs, it is not enough to provide long-lasting relief. Further, members of the House Democratic Caucus offered over a dozen amendments to improve the bill, none of which were adopted by the Republican supermajority. 

State Rep. Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) issued the following statement upon the supermajority rejecting all 13 amendments offered by House Democrats: 

“By the year 2028, we will have a $5 billion surplus. It will not hurt the state to give some relief to the average citizen. Hoosiers struggling to afford their utility bills deserve the same privilege as major corporations. I am simply astounded that Republicans refused to remove the 7% sales tax on residential utility bills. What is the point of having a surplus if we aren’t going to use it to help our people get by? 

“Another amendment rejected would have helped notify seniors about payment assistance programs. The Republican argument against this amendment was that seniors can have a young family member help them navigate assistance programs online. Unfortunately, not everyone is blessed with young people in their families that can assist with this. This amendment would have been an easy way to help more people get financial relief, and the Republican supermajority blocked it. 

“My constituents are reaching out for help. They need relief, and they need relief now. The amendments offered by my colleagues today would have helped all Hoosiers, from our most vulnerable to the average working family just trying to make ends meet. I am glad that we are having the discussion about the importance of lowering utility bills. However, I am gravely disappointed that so many good ideas were rejected today.” 

See below for the list of amendments and descriptions: 

• Amendment #4 would have allowed for community energy facilities to generate or store energy from alternative, cheaper sources such as solar, wind or battery power to lower costs for all customers in the community.

• Amendment #5 protects vulnerable Hoosiers by requiring utility companies to implement a program that would prohibit disconnections for individuals who have a medical condition where they rely on life support devices like respirators, ventilators, dialysis machines, refrigerated medications or other medical treatment. 

• Amendment #6 would have required utility companies to include information about payment assistance programs in the monthly bills of senior customers. 

• Amendment #7 would have held utilities accountable for reliable service by requiring they reimburse customers for any financial losses suffered as the result of an outage, including spoiled food. 

• Amendment #8 would have added oversight by requiring public utilities to get approval from the Utility Regulatory Commission before making certain profit enhancing moves such as selling stock, entering certain contracts, reorganizing or acquiring another utility. 

• Amendment #10: would have suspended the 7% sales tax on residential utility bills and prohibited the IURC from issuing future sales tax breaks for data centers and quantum computing facilities.

• Amendment 11: Prohibits utilities from recovering the cost of lobbying and political activities through ratepayer bills. This amendment was blocked on procedural grounds instead of outright rejected.

• Amendment #13 would have required utility companies to hold three public hearings in the communities affected by a proposed rate hike. 

• Amendment #14 would have prohibited companies from disconnecting any resident for missing payments during the coldest months of the year. Currently, only residents who qualify for the energy assistance program are protected from disconnections during the coldest months. This amendment would have ensured that all Hoosiers are protected from disconnections in dangerous weather. 

• Amendment #15 would have eliminated the sales tax on residential utility bills as commercial utility bills are granted. 

• Amendment #16 would have prohibited the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) from approving a rate increase above 3% of the average monthly bill. 

• Amendment #19 would have established a 2-year moratorium on fixed rates and charges - effective June 30, 2026, to July 1, 2028.

Smith strongly against execution by firing squad, encourages input from his community

Today, Jan. 27, State Rep. Dr. Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) issued the following statement on House Bill 1119, which would legalize the use of firing squads to carry out the death penalty:

“I have long opposed the death penalty because of my faith and my belief in the sanctity of life. People should be held accountable for their crimes, but I do not support taking a life that was bestowed by our Creator. My position has not changed. 

“However, the push to legalize execution by firing squads is deeply troubling. It’s a brutal, painful way to die that was outlawed in 1913 in the state of Indiana because it was deemed cruel and unusual punishment. This law seeks to draw us back to darker times, where inflicting pain is paramount rather than our morality. 

“As a state representative, I believe it is important to hear directly from the people I represent. This is a serious and moral issue, and I want to understand my constituents’ perspectives before moving forward. I encourage you to contact me as soon as possible since the legislation is moving quickly.”

HB 1119 final vote in the House is scheduled for tomorrow, Jan. 28, and then it will head to the Senate. The community can send their thoughts, concerns and questions to Smith at (317) 232-9731 or at h14@iga.in.gov.

Smith gives annual MLK address to the House: ‘Precious Lord Take My Hand’

Today, Jan. 15, State Rep. Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) gave his annual address to the Indiana House of Representatives in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. As his day of remembrance nears, Smith reminds his fellow Hoosiers of MLK’s lasting legacy of humble service, determination and peaceful resistance.

“Even before he established himself in history, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. suffered a great deal of adversity,” Smith said. “He suffered from childhood depression. He endured regular whippings from his father until he was a teen. At 12, when his grandmother passed, he jumped from a second-story window.

“He continued to face adversity as a grown man. His home in Montgomery, Alabama, was bombed in 1956. He was stabbed at a book signing and almost lost his life in 1958. His plane was evacuated for a bomb threat in 1968.

“In the throes of adversity, I imagine Dr. King whispered softly to God, ‘Precious Lord, take my hand. Lead me on, let me stand.’ He often requested that soloists and choirs sing this hymn when he spoke in churches. As a child, I watched him request the hymn when he spoke in Gary.

“His dark times continued on his walk for equality. By the late 1960s, Dr. King had been abandoned by politicians, the media, the public and even his fellow clergyman. Abandoned and alone, he penned his famous Letter from the Birmingham Jail. 

“Like the Son of God who cried out on the cross, I’m certain Dr. King felt forsaken. But he continued to sing, ‘At the river I stand, guide my feet, hold my hand. Take my hand, precious Lord.’ He did not quit. He did not give up. Amidst challenges and obstacles, he kept his eyes on his goal of freedom and justice for all. 

“They thought killing the dreamer would kill the dream. However, I can firmly say that the dream lives. Dr. King’s tragic assassination ended his season of suffering but ushered in an era of freedom and elevation. His journey is a reminder that rejection is redirection. As we commemorate Dr. King on Monday, we must remember that it’s where we stand in challenges, not in comfort and security, that is most important.” 

Smith to focus on cost of living, community needs this session

On Monday, Jan. 5, the Indiana House Democratic Caucus announced its 2026 Working Hoosiers Agenda. The agenda centers on bringing down the cost of living and prioritizes measures to build an Indiana where Hoosiers can get ahead rather than stay afloat. This includes reducing utility bills, lowering health care costs, housing reform and affordable child care.

State Rep. Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) issued the following statement about his focus on the cost of living:

"Many of our people are struggling to stay afloat. They're working multiple jobs, and they still can't make ends meet. People’s paychecks aren’t growing, but costs are rising. That’s why we must address skyrocketing utility bills, health care costs and housing. We need to give the residents of Indiana some relief.” 

Indiana House Democrats' full agenda is below:

• Priority 1: Provide immediate financial relief on utility bills.

• Priority 2: Keep Hoosiers healthy through affordable health coverage and guardrails on medical debt.

• Priority 3: Create generational wealth by empowering more Hoosier homeowners.

• Priority 4: Deliver accessible, affordable and safe childcare for working families.

• Priority 5: Keep Hoosiers safe in their homes and neighborhoods.

In addition to the Indiana House Democrats' agenda, Smith filed five pieces of legislation to improve his community. Representatives can only file five bills during a short session. One of Smith’s bills, House Bill 1081, would establish the Hoosier Scam Prevention Board to protect Hoosiers from predatory scamming operations. A resident of Indiana House District 14 requested this bill. 

“Scam attempts have become alarmingly common, and no one is more susceptible to scams than people in poverty,” Smith said. “When you're in need, it's easier to believe that these scams offering gifts or money could make a difference. People often fall for these tricks, losing thousands of dollars in the process. It adds more pain to an already difficult situation. We need to establish the Hoosier Scam Prevention Board to give struggling Hoosiers the help they need.” 

House Bill 1299 and House Bill 1301 reform aspects of Indiana’s corrections system. HB 1299 prohibits people convicted of domestic violence from owning firearms, and HB 1301 requires the Indiana Department of Corrections (IDOC) to issue certificates of eligibility for release to convicted people who have shown clear signs of rehabilitation and good behavior.

"If our system is doing what it’s supposed to do — correcting — then the IDOC shouldn’t hold people longer than necessary,”  Smith said. “Corrections should be about the journey to rehabilitation, not about punishment. I know firsthand through calls, letters and emails with inmates that people are capable of change. They should be rewarded for their hard work to better themselves by having their sentences individually evaluated rather than continuing to be punished for past mistakes.”

Another piece of Smith’s legislation, House Bill 1082, requires that charter schools that receive referendum tax levies must also contribute a share of the labor to conduct those referendums.

“Charter schools are often managed by entities outside of the communities they operate in,” Smith said. “Charter school administrators promised to provide a cheaper, better education than public schools. Research shows that they haven’t. Charter schools have become more about profit and less about education. The overwhelming majority of citizens feel that charter schools shouldn't get a share of property taxes, but if they do, they should share the labor requirements.

“It takes work to pass a referendum through door knocking, phone banks, advertising and working the polls. Charter schools should be an equal partner in that labor if they want a share of the funding.”

A full list of Smith’s legislation is available below:

1. House Bill 1081: Hoosier Scam Prevention Board 

2. House Bill 1082: Shared Labor to Conduct a Referendum

3. House Bill 1299: Surrender of Firearms for Domestic Violence Crimes

4. House Bill 1300: Deferred Retirement Option Plan

5. House Bill 1301: Sentence Modification

“The legislation I’ve filed for the 2026 Legislative Session, along with my caucus’s agenda, mirrors my strong commitment to uplifting House District 14. I hope to see progress on each of these issues in the coming weeks to benefit Hoosiers across our state."

Smith shares importance of community, invites residents to Spirit of Christmas

On Tuesday, Dec. 23, State Rep. Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) is hosting the 37th annual Spirit of Christmas food and gift giveaway from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. CT at the Calumet Township Multi-Purpose Center (1900 W. 41st Avenue, Gary, Indiana, 46408). The event is co-hosted by the 6th District Councilman of the City of Gary, Dwight A. Williams, and the IU Dons Incorporated. 

The Spirit of Christmas is a free event that all in the greater Gary community are invited to attend. Gifts are available for all ages.

“This event is about the true meaning of Christmas,” Smith said. “It’s about joining together as a community and following in the footsteps of our Savior. As we celebrate the birth of Christ, we are reminded of his holy mission of selfless service. The Spirit of Christmas embodies his mission. 

“Many in the greater Gary community are in need of good company, food and some holiday spirit. Join us for an afternoon of celebration and togetherness. If you need a meal, there will be a boxed food giveaway. We also have gifts for people of all ages. Join me to celebrate the birth of Christ through community and the joy of service.”

Anyone who wishes to donate or volunteer for this event will be deeply appreciated. Accepted donations include unwrapped gifts, gift cards and cash donations. For more information about donating or volunteering, you can call Smith at (219)887-2046. 

Smith asks for donations, volunteers for Spirit of Christmas

On Tuesday, Dec. 23, State Rep. Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) is hosting the 37th annual Spirit of Christmas food and gift giveaway from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. CT at the Calumet Township Multi-Purpose Center (1900 W. 41st Avenue, Gary, Indiana, 46408). The event is co-hosted by the 6th District Councilman of the City of Gary, Dwight A. Williams, and the IU Dons Incorporated. 

Anyone who wishes to donate or volunteer for this event will be deeply appreciated. Accepted donations include unwrapped gifts, gift cards and cash donations. For more information about donating or volunteering, individuals can call Smith at (219)887-2046. 

“If you are blessed enough to give back, I hope you’ll do so this year through the Spirit of Christmas,” Smith said. “This event is about the true reason for the season, generosity and service. Christmas is a time of joy, but also a time when many feel neglected and alone. Our goal is to brighten people’s holidays through gifts, togetherness and community. 

“Everyone deserves to experience the joy of getting a gift for Christmas, especially our underprivileged children. Any generous contributions made will go directly to acquiring and distributing gifts for individuals of all ages. It is the generosity and kindness of others that make this event possible each year.” 

All residents of the greater Gary community are invited to attend the free event, including residents of Merrillville, Highland, East Chicago,  Hobart, Lake Station and Crown Point. 

Smith reacts to the House passage of Republicans’ gerrymandered map

Today, Dec. 5, Indiana House Republicans passed House Bill 1032, their congressional map, after months of pressure from Washington, D.C. The map cracks like-minded communities to give the Republican party an advantage in Indiana’s congressional elections. Congressional District 1 stretches from Gary to Wabash. HB 1032 heads to the Senate for their consideration next week. 

State Rep. Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) released the following statement: 

“We know why the House is here. We’re here because of the Big Beautiful Bill and the president's detrimental decisions that affect the people of this nation. The direct consequence is that his polling is dropping. He called red states and said, ‘find me more seats.’ He fears the loss of control in Congress, and he’s calling on red states to bail him out. 

“Now, House Republicans follow him blindly to do his bidding. The House has been called to session to harm, to do wrong. Today was wrong. Republicans have taken steps to damage our democracy. This is the greatest nation in the world, and you’re playing games with it. What happened to the legislature that I joined 36 years ago? 

“I represent Indiana House District 14, and I deeply respect our congressman. I have never seen anybody who is more representative of our community, who is more available, who is more helpful. How is he supposed to continue to do good works for our communities when his district spans 9 counties? You’re asking him to balance the needs of central Indiana with our northwest communities. 

“We’re supposed to be servants of the people. Have we forgotten that? Our country, our state, is more than political moves. Thousands and thousands of people are against this. A statewide poll in August found that 51% of registered voters oppose this, with 45% strongly opposed. Another poll from Independent Indiana found only 34% of voters support redistricting. I know you have received calls. You’ve received emails, and people have talked to you in the streets. 

“This bill may be a blessing in disguise for the Democratic Party. When you dig a grave, you'd better dig two. You may be creating a force that is multifaceted, inter-racial and of all economic stations. I promise you that we are not going to agonize; we are going to organize. God bless America. God Bless Indiana. God, please turn this attempt to make a fully red map into a blue one.”  

Smith to host 37th annual Spirit of Christmas

On Tuesday, Dec. 23, State Rep. Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) is hosting the 37th annual Spirit of Christmas food and gift giveaway. Co-hosted by 6th District Councilman of the City of Gary, Dwight A. Williams, the Spirit of Christmas is held in honor of Reverend Julia E. Smith, who served as pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, and Patricia Tillotson, a former educator in the Gary School Corporation. 

The free event will take place from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. CT at the Calumet Township Multi-Purpose Center (1900 W. 41st Avenue, Gary, Indiana, 46408). All are welcome to attend, and gifts are for all ages. 

“I started this tradition in honor of two women who dedicated their lives to service, my late mother and Patricia Tillotson,” Smith said. “They served in different ways, one was a reverend and the other an educator, but they each understood the importance of generosity. Selfless acts can transform a community. 

“Christmas is a wonderful reminder to put others before ourselves. That’s what the Spirit of Christmas is even about: generosity, service and togetherness. It’s an opportunity to gather as a community and celebrate the Savior’s birth. 

“The event is open to all, but I want to personally invite those in need of good company or gifts for their family this Christmas. I understand how stressful the holiday season can be with rising costs; therefore, gifts are available for all ages. I hope you join us to celebrate the spirit of Christmas.”  

Any who wishes to volunteer for this event will be deeply appreciated. For more information about the event or volunteering, you can call Dr. Smith at (219)887-2046. 

As Nov. 21 approaches, Smith reminds community of the Harvest Feast

As Thanksgiving approaches, Dr. Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) would like to remind residents of the communities of Gary, Dyer, Schererville, Crown Point, Merrillville and Griffith about the Harvest Feast. The Feast will be held this Friday, Nov. 21, at 7 p.m. at New Hope Church, 2307 Rhode Island St., in Gary. This event is held each year in honor of his mother, the Rev. Julia E. Smith, and his aunt Magnolia Allen. 

The feast is free to attend and open to all residents of the Greater Gary community. This year's performers include gospel soloists, Nate Mason and Stephan Henderson, the West Side Theatre Guild Repertoire Dance Company, the West Side Academy Drama Club and Wings of Harmony. 

“The Feast is happening this Friday, Nov. 21,” said Dr. Smith. “Please join me for food, fellowship and a chance to give thanks as a community. There’s no cost, no ticket. This is a free meal and everyone has a seat at our table.”

Attendees can enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal, featuring turkey, dressing, roast beef, macaroni and cheese, green beans, greens, mashed potatoes, cabbage, sweet potatoes and a variety of desserts. 

“Once again, thank you to our performers who will bless us with their talent during the short service. Also, thank you to everyone who prepares our delicious meal. I am blessed to have a wonderful group of people behind me who support the Harvest Feast. Please join us for a hot meal and an evening of gratitude for God’s blessings.” 

Smith announces live performers for Harvest Feast

State Rep. Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) announced the group of live performers for the Harvest Feast. The Feast will be held at 7 p.m., Friday, Nov. 21, at the New Hope Church, 2307 Rhode Island St., in Gary. Dr. Smith organizes and hosts this event each year in memory of his mother, the Rev. Julia E. Smith, and his aunt Magnolia Allen. The late Julia E. Smith was a former pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church. 

This year's performers include gospel soloists, Nate Mason and Stephan Henderson, and the West Side Theatre Guild Repertoire Dance Company. Other performers will be announced later. 

“The Harvest feast isn't just a meal,” said Dr. Smith. “It’s a chance to worship and lift our spirits in thankfulness. Gary has a rich history of music, especially gospel and soul. In the shared history, we find peace and unity. Each year, it’s an immense joy to see live performers share their talents during the service. Thank you to this year’s performers who are taking the time out of their busy holiday schedules to worship with us.” 

Attendees can enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal, featuring turkey, dressing, roast beef, macaroni and cheese, green beans, greens, mashed potatoes, cabbage, sweet potatoes and a variety of desserts. The feast is free to attend and open to all residents of the Greater Gary community. 

“There is a seat at the table for everyone,” explained Dr. Smith. “All are welcome at the feast. If you have plans with your family, bring them. If you don’t have any plans, we’ll be your family. I would especially like to extend the invitation to our veterans and active-duty service members. Their sacrifice and service are one of the reasons we have so many blessings to be grateful for.”

Smith to serve on interim study committees

On Wednesday, members of the Indiana House of Representatives received their interim study committee assignments. Interim study committees delve deeper into specific state issues and publish reports for the upcoming legislative session. Many bills that become law during the legislative session are based on findings made by interim study committees. State Rep. Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) was assigned to the following study committees: 

• Interim Study Committee on Education

• The Indiana Commission on the Social Status of Black Males (ICSSBM)

• Distressed Unit Appeals Board

 “I’m pleased to serve on study committees again for my community,” Smith said. “This interim is especially important as we face critical impacts from federal decisions, especially in our traditional public schools. Right before the start of the school year, the federal government is withholding $107 million in education funding. After-school programs, supplemental English instruction and professional development for our teachers are in limbo. I plan on bringing the needs of our students and educators to the forefront this summer as they face insurmountable outside stressors. 

“Regarding the ICSSB, we have much to discuss with recent attacks on diversity, equity and inclusion. Yesterday, the governor announced that the state has eliminated over 70 training programs centered on inclusivity. We should strive to acknowledge and overcome our differences, especially in governance. This move will harm the space in government that the Black community has painstakingly created over the past couple of decades. 

“I plan on speaking up for my community and all Hoosiers affected by these decisions, as I do every year.” 

The ICSSBM is a year-round commission that reviews a spectrum of issues impacting Black males in Indiana. The commission has offered multiple recommendations during its 25-year history, several of which have become new laws designed to improve the economic, educational, professional and social status of Black males. Smith authored the original bill in 1993, which created the ICSSBM.