Bauer comments on Gov. Braun’s Executive Order extending parental leave

Today, Mar. 3, Gov. Mike Braun signed an executive order extending bereavement and parental leave for state employees.

State Rep. Maureen Bauer (D-South Bend) released the following statement: 

“Today, I’m encouraged to see that Gov. Braun has signed Executive Order (EO) 25-34, which establishes new paid leave policies for state employees who experience childbirth or stillbirth. Under this EO, eligible employed women will receive six weeks of paid childbirth recovery leave, or up to eight weeks if they deliver via C-section. This policy also extends to employees who experience the heartbreaking loss of a pregnancy after 20 weeks. These benefits are now available to all state employees, regardless of how long they’ve been employed.

“In 2022, I authored legislation to expand bereavement and parental leave through House Bill 1244. This bill would have provided full-time employees of state agencies or political subdivisions with 150 hours of paid leave and part-time employees with 75 hours of paid leave upon the birth of their child or their spouse’s child, the adoption of a child, or in the tragic event of a stillbirth.

“Unfortunately, despite the clear need for these measures, the bill did not receive a hearing. In the 2022 Special Session, I proposed an amendment to HB 1001 that mirrored my efforts in HB 1244, once again advocating for expanded parental leave for state employees. This amendment was met with staunch opposition and ultimately voted down with a 29-62 outcome.

“It is disheartening that the legislative Republican majority chose a record of disregarding the voices of working families and the emotional needs of parents during such critical life events. Their lack of support for these essential benefits reflects a troubling disconnect from the realities faced by Hoosier families. While I am pleased to see progress with today’s EO, it is evident that our work is far from over.

“This expansion of paid leave is a significant step forward, but it should not overshadow the fact that there has been a consistent resistance from Republican lawmakers to prioritize the well-being of working families. I, along with my fellow Indiana House Democrats, will continue to push for comprehensive parental leave policies. Parents deserve the time to celebrate the arrival of a child or to grieve the loss of one without the fear of jeopardizing their employment.

“As we move forward, I remain committed to strengthening employee benefits for all Hoosiers. I will persist in filing legislation to ensure that working parents receive the support they need to balance their family responsibilities and careers. It is my hope that we can foster a bipartisan dialogue that truly reflects the needs of the families we serve.”

Bauer appointed to Youth Service Bureau of Directors

Last Friday, Feb. 7, State Rep. Maureen Bauer (D-South Bend) was welcomed as a new member of the Youth Services Bureau of St. Joseph County Board of Directors (YSB). As a new member appointed to the board, Bauer was selected due to her continued leadership and advocacy on public education, youth safety, and child protection for Hoosier families. YSB delivers client-centered, trauma-responsive, and preventative services and support to youth experiencing safety and housing crises.

Bauer released the following statement on her appointment to the YSB:

“It is an honor to be appointed to the Board of Directors for YSB, an incredible nonprofit that provides safety and shelter to young people in vulnerable situations. As a legislator, my commitment to protecting young people and giving them the best shot at success is a key priority. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to further the mission of YSB to improve the safety and life chances of young Hoosiers in St. Joseph County and beyond."

Bauer’s tenant protections amendments struck down by House Republicans

Today, Jan. 30, State Rep. Maureen Bauer’s (D-South Bend) proposed amendments to strengthen tenant protections in House Bill 1115. All three were blocked from debate by Indiana House Republicans. 

Bauer, who has long advocated for stronger tenant protections, expressed frustration following the rejections of these crucial measures, which aimed to improve the safety and well-being of renters across the state. These amendments sought to establish more stringent standards for basic living conditions including: minimum heat regulation for seniors & children; a properly installed, vented and operational hot water heater; properly installed wiring free from deterioration; and minimum of one working smoke alarm per dwelling.

Bauer released the following statement on the failed amendments:

“In direct response to the need to strengthen tenant protections in Indiana, I proposed real action that the Indiana General Assembly could have taken today to raise the standard of housing in Indiana. We are once again denying an opportunity to expand safety protections for our most vulnerable residents. The 2024 LaPorte Avenue fire is a stark reminder of the failures of Indiana's current landlord-tenant code. It is up to the Indiana General Assembly to do more to ensure that every Hoosier has a safe living environment.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe in their own home. No family deserves to bring a newborn infant home to an apartment that is not adequately heated in the middle of winter, as was the case at Cedar Glen Apartments. Litigation should not be the only recourse. Time and time again, we see efforts to protect renters blocked by those who ignore the dangers of weak housing standards. We can and must do better.”

Bauer files 2025 bills focused on public safety; infant and maternal health

With the official start of the 2025 legislative session, State Rep. Maureen Bauer (D-South Bend) has filed bills focused on two key areas: public safety and infant and maternal health.

House Bill (HB) 1039 would prohibit the online sale of ammunition to minors. A report conducted by Everytown for Gun Safety revealed that seven online retailers sold ammunition without any age verification at the point of sale or at the time of delivery. The bill would require proof of identity and age verification for the purchase of ammunition, such as other age-restricted products including alcohol, tobacco, and online betting. 

HB1328 would require landlords to fix essential systems, such as plumbing and heating, within 48 hours of a tenant's notification. If landlords do not do so within 30 days, the tenant can withhold rent to cover repair costs. The tenant can also pay rent to the court during a legal dispute, with the court distributing it to the prevailing party. The bill would also prevent a landlord from leasing a property to a new tenant if essential repairs have not been maintained. 

“It is the responsibility of the landlord to guarantee safe, habitable living spaces for all their tenants,” Bauer said. “We have learned from the tragic LaPorte Ave fire in South Bend that took the lives of six children last year. Although the cause of the fire remains unknown, the residence failed a federally mandated safety inspection six months before the fire with known electrical issues. It must be the duty required of a landlord to guarantee a safe home for renters.

HB1072 would require law enforcement agencies to adopt a statewide, evidence-based domestic violence lethality assessment protocol for all reported incidents of domestic violence. The assessment consists of 11 yes-or-no questions designed to gauge the danger victims face. Modeled off the Gabby Petito Act in Florida, this bill will help identify victims at risk of harm and would help law enforcement officers and domestic violence agencies connect high-risk victims to support services.

HB1094 would require anyone performing a sonogram, an imaging technique that uses ultrasonic waves to produce an electronic image inside a body, to be licensed by the Indiana Department of Health. 

“Only four states require licensure to operate a sonogram machine, Indiana not being one. Pregnant women seeking holistic healthcare in Indiana are being misled to believe crisis pregnancy centers are offering medical services. However, the services received are non-diagnostic and can lead to missed or overlooked health emergencies, such as an ectopic pregnancy, which can lead to pregnancy loss or infertility. It is time to raise the bar when it comes to infant and maternal healthcare in Indiana.”

HB1205 requires a State Employee Health Plan (SEHP), a policy of accident and sickness insurance, and a health maintenance organization contract to provide coverage for fertility treatment.

“Infertility should be viewed as a medically necessary condition that deserves treatment covered by insurance. The decision to start a family shouldn't come with medical debt. Indiana can join the list of states that choose to support families through In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) treatment and help couples grow their families.

“I am grateful to represent South Bend and Mishawaka once again at the Statehouse and will continue to prioritize drafting legislation promoting Hoosiers’ well-being and safety. Indiana residents deserve to have access to high-quality healthcare services and the comfort of knowing their residence remains a safe space to call home.

“State policymakers have the power to pass safeguards which would raise the bar on housing and healthcare standards in Indiana to benefit and empower families. We have the ability to answer the call to act, and I look forward to taking meaningful action on your behalf as your representative at the Statehouse.”

Bauer comments on renters protections bill for Hoosiers

Yesterday, Dec. 11, Indiana State Fire Marshal Steve Jones and South Bend Fire Department Chief Carl Buchanon provided an update on the investigation into the fatal Jan. 21, 2024, LaPorte Avenue house fire in South Bend. The cause of the fire remains undetermined.

However, key findings in the investigation have brought attention to serious safety concerns regarding the conditions of the home at 222 N. LaPorte Ave. In the months leading up to the fire, the residence had failed a federally mandated safety inspection, revealing multiple issues, including documented electrical problems. While investigators could not definitely link the fire’s cause to these electrical issues, the history of safety concerns raises significant questions.

The investigation highlights the need for increased renter protections and safety for renters in Indiana. State Rep. Maureen Bauer (D-South Bend) has previously called attention to the lack of protections for Indiana tenants when landlords fail to maintain safe living conditions. Currently, Indiana law does not allow tenants to withhold rent when their housing conditions are unsafe or fail to meet safety standards.

Neighboring states have established rent escrow accounts, providing tenants with a way to protect themselves and their families, and encourage landlords to make necessary home repairs. These escrow accounts enable tenants to temporarily pay their rent into a legal account rather than directly to the landlord until the necessary unsafe or uninhabitable repairs are made.

Once repairs are made, the rent is released to the landlord. Without such protections in place in Indiana, tenants are left vulnerable to living in poor and unsafe living conditions and may even face retaliation of eviction.

Bauer released the following statement on the recent investigation announcement: 

“While our thoughts remain with the Smith family and members of the South Bend Fire Department, the LaPorte Avenue tragedy can be prevented from happening again in our community. I am committed to fighting for stronger tenant rights and protections, which include rent escrow accounts in Indiana. Our current laws favor landlords even when their properties fail to meet basic safety standards, and this needs to change. For this reason, Sen. Niezgodski and I will be filing companion legislation in the House and Senate to establish escrow accounts for renters in Indiana.

“The results of the LaPorte Ave. fire investigation, and undetermined cause, highlight the urgency of fire prevention measures, particularly during the colder months when fire risks increase. To help mitigate the risk of future tragedies, the South Bend Fire Department continues to offer its FREE smoke detector program to local residents, emphasizing the importance of functioning smoke alarms in all homes.

“The focus now shifts to preventing future tragedies through better legislation, enforcement and protections. As the 2025 legislation approaches, the legislature must prioritize a commitment to creating safe and stable home environments for families across our state, while still supporting landlords who are committed to this effort.”

Bauer receives Environmental Activism Award on behalf of National Caucus of Environmental Legislators

Today, Aug. 2, the National Caucus of Environmental Legislators (NCEL) awarded State Rep. Maureen Bauer (D-South Bend) the Environmental Activism Award for her outstanding efforts in advocating for a safer and healthier environment. The award was presented at the NCEL National Forum, where state legislators from across the nation gather to discuss environmental issues and policy solutions.

The Environmental Activism Award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and leadership in environmental advocacy. During her two terms in the Indiana General Assembly, Bauer has been a staunch champion for sustainable practices, a leader on PFAS policy, and has promoted initiatives that protect, defend and prioritize the health of Hoosier communities.

Bauer released the following statement on her receival of the prestigious award:

“I am deeply honored to receive the 2024 NCEL Renny Cushing Environmental Activism Award. This recognition underscores the importance of working proactively to protect and preserve our environment for the future. I am grateful to NCEL for this acknowledgment and remain committed to advancing strong policies that defend future generations of Hoosiers through legislative action.

“During the 2024 legislative session, I fought hard to defeat legislation that sought to deregulate thousands of PFAS chemicals. I will always promote measures that protect public health, and I will continue to advocate against measures that attempt to mislead the public about the exposure risks they face when using everyday products or while on the job.  The public deserves the right to know what toxic substances are being used in Indiana manufactured goods, and the environmental and health impacts. I will continue to raise the alarm to ensure the public will be informed consumers, for the betterment of their own health and the health of their family.”

Indiana launches Bauer’s firefighter PFAS biomonitoring pilot program

On July 15, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security announced the launch of the Indiana Firefighter PFAS Biomonitoring Pilot Program, inviting applications from firefighters throughout the state until its deadline of Aug. 9, 2024. Made possible through a law authored by State Rep. Maureen Bauer (D-South Bend) in 2023, this initiative marks a significant step in safeguarding the health of those who risk their lives daily to protect our communities.

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals,” pose potential health risks and are found in firefighter gear, foams, and fire combustion byproducts. While Indiana has made steps to get rid of PFAS-containing gear and foams, many current and retired firefighters were exposed to them for years. The pilot program aims to assess the levels of PFAS in firefighters’ blood through voluntary participation. These results will be used to enhance safety protocols and protect firefighter health. 

How to Participate:

1. Submit Your Information: Interested Indiana firefighters can apply online by submitting their name, email, and PSID via the application link at on.in.gov/pfas-testing.

2. Follow-Up Application: Applicants will receive a follow-up application from pfas@delineateconsulting.com for further details.

3. Receive Testing Kit: Selected participants will receive an at-home testing kit, which they must return within 14 days to receive their results promptly.

State Rep. Maureen Bauer released the following statement on the launch of the program:

“House Enrolled Act 1219 was my first bill ever signed into law. This pilot program, inspired by South Bend fallen heroes like Captain David Koehler, Josh Comeau and Mike Brown, underscores our commitment to safeguarding the health of Indiana’s firefighters. Their courage and sacrifice inspire us to take proactive steps in reducing health risks associated with PFAS exposure. I urge all eligible firefighters to apply to participate in this vital initiative. As always, thank you to our brave firefighters and their families for the sacrifices they make each and every day to keep us safe. Now it’s time to return the favor.”

Bauer shares key takeaways from White House covening on gun violence prevention

On Wednesday, June 26, State Rep. Maureen Bauer (D-South Bend) attended a convening on gun violence prevention at the White House in Washington, D.C. The convening consisted of state legislators from across the nation who are working to reduce gun violence. At the event, Bauer heard from White House officials and other state lawmakers on effective policies to address the epidemic of gun violence afflicting our nation. 

This past legislative session, Bauer co-authored House Bill 1325, which would have implemented a safe storage law in Indiana. In 2023, legislative language from Bauer’s House Bill 1227 was amended into House Enrolled Act 1177 which requires schools to send home information about safe storage to parents or guardians annually, and these pamphlets were distributed for the first time this school year.  

“I am grateful to have attended this convening of state legislators at the White House as a part of the Safer States Initiative,” Bauer said. “From federal agencies like the first-ever White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention to national partners like Everytown for Gun Safety and Brady, states are being provided with the tools to take life-saving action to reduce gun violence.  

“Since the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act was passed two years ago, there has been a reduction in violent crime to a nearly 50-year low. There is still more to do in Indiana, like providing support services for victims of violent crime and passing child access prevention laws. We must make sure we are attending graduations, not funerals. Celebrating birthdays, not visiting gravesites.  

“After this convening, I will continue to research legislative pathways to provide aid to victims and survivors immediately after a crime, in hospitals, which has been proven to reduce recidivism and retaliation. I will also continue to look into policy to provide school-based intervention and support before our youth turn to violence to solve their problems, to prevent unnecessary loss of life. Finally, state government should work to be the strongest partner we can be to law enforcement and public health agencies in this fight – after all, gun violence has been declared a public health crisis by the U.S. Surgeon General.   

“As always, I want South Bend residents to know that you can pick up a free gun lock, no questions asked at the South Bend Police Department. 

"I will continue to work on this issue every day, in the memory of those lost to or injured by violent crime in our community. We will continue to make progress on this issue with our federal and community partners, and with the help of residents."