Shackleford introduces 2026 legislation, Working Hoosiers Agenda
Today, State Rep. Robin Shackleford (D-Indianapolis) introduced her 2026 legislative agenda focused on accountability in government, protecting Hoosier families and ensuring fairness and transparency across critical systems that impact everyday life.
Shackleford’s authored legislation for the 2026 session includes:
HB 1179 establishes term limits for elected and appointed state senators and representatives, capping service at a combined total of 20 years or until an individual’s 70th birthday.
HB 1180 directs the state health commissioner to convene a work group to study ways to prevent and reduce neglect in health care facilities and report recommendations to the General Assembly. The bill also requires facilities to designate a family advocacy liaison, establish an independent third-party review process for neglect complaints and offer grief support to families after a resident’s death. Additionally, it protects employees from retaliation for reporting suspected violations and calls for an interim study on staff-to-patient ratios.
HB 1181 creates an Access to Counsel in Eviction Task Force to review Indiana’s eviction process and explore ways to expand tenants’ access to legal representation. The task force will report its findings to the Legislative Council.
HB 1245 directs the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission to study how increased electricity demand from data centers and other large users affects utility costs and electric rates for all customers, with findings included in the commission’s 2026 annual report.
HB 1246 requires adults in households receiving TANF or SNAP benefits to complete a state-developed financial literacy course. The Department of Education will establish and administer the program and provide annual reports to the General Assembly on participation and outcomes.
Shackleford released the following statement:
“Hoosiers deserve a government that is accountable, systems that are fair and policies that put people first. These bills reflect what I hear from constituents every day — concerns about affordability, transparency, dignity in care and access to opportunity. Whether it’s protecting families in health care settings, ensuring renters have a fair shot, keeping utility costs in check or making sure lawmakers are accountable to the people they serve, this legislation is about restoring trust and making government work better for everyday Hoosiers.”