GiaQuinta statement on IndyStar sexual harassment investigation

Following an Indianapolis Star sexual harassment investigation published Monday morning, House Democratic Leader Phil GiaQuinta released the following statement: 

"As Indiana House Democratic Leader, I strongly condemn sexual harassment, no matter who it comes from. I cannot ignore this principle simply because a Statehouse Democrat has been accused of sexual harassment.  

"Indiana House Democrats successfully offered a 2018 amendment that resulted in a law to require annual sexual harassment prevention training for lawmakers and institute a House rule on the complaint process to properly investigate and hold lawmakers accountable when and if sexual harassment has occurred. It’s important to me that complaints are taken seriously. I’m glad the House has a reporting mechanism so victims and witnesses can come forward and feel safe to do so. 

"Finally, I want to remind all House employees that if something happened that you feel is worth reporting, our Ethics rules and the House’s personnel handbook provide for a confidential investigation process and guarantee protection from retaliation."

Smith invites community to the annual Harvest Feast

State Rep. Vernon G. Smith is hosting the annual Harvest Feast on Friday, Nov. 22 at 7:00 p.m. CST. The event will take place at New Hope Church located at 2307 Rhode Island St. Gary, IN 46407. The Harvest Feast includes a short religious service followed by a traditional Thanksgiving dinner. 

“Every year, I hold the annual Harvest Feast to honor my mother, the late Reverend Julia Smith. Service to the community was one of the many values she instilled in me growing up. My mother started this tradition in Gary to bring people together to give thanks for the blessings of this life. I am proud to keep her legacy of service alive and praise her memory for all she did for the people of this city. 

“All are welcome to join me for this joyous celebration of the gifts granted to us by the Good Lord. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with the community, give thanks, and give back. There will be a free traditional Thanksgiving dinner, worship, entertainment and good company.” 

Part of economic development is addressing educational inequity

For decades, the ticket to success has been post-grad education. Michael Hicks, a leading economist from Ball State University, sums it up well with the phrase “education is the path to a middle-class life.” This doesn’t mean that those who head straight into the workforce can’t be successful. I’m a strong believer in choosing the path that’s best for you. However, I can’t deny that jobs requiring degrees usually offer higher pay, consistent wage growth and more security. There are other ways to achieve middle-class life, but the attainment of a college degree is the most likely path to that outcome. 

Unfortunately, Hoosier students are moving away from degrees. Indiana’s college-going rate has plummeted from 65% to only 53% since 2015. COVID-19 has exacerbated the problem, and the cost of schools is another deterrent. We’ve discussed this issue, but we’ve missed a key component: our Black students. College enrollment is dropping across the board, but the decline is more severe among students of color. The college-going rate for Black students has dropped shockingly low to 44%. There’s been some progress through the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus (IBLC) with auto-enrollment for the 21st Century Scholars Program. But more should be done, especially across the aisle, to change the tide.  

Looking at Indiana’s education landscape, it’s easy to understand why Black students forgo college. Let’s look at the most recent college equity report: only 17% of Black students received an Honors diploma, only 40% earned AP or dual credit and only 27% met early success benchmarks. To top it off, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that affirmative action was unconstitutional. These measures encouraged minority students to apply with the promise of equitable admissions. College may not be for everyone, but Black students are clearly underserved. 

Post-grad employment opportunities are similarly dismal. The GOP majority has focused on work-based learning, but Black students are underrepresented in these programs. Registered apprenticeships are a moderately successful program with 21,768 active apprentices who make an average wage of $19.50 per hour. But Black Hoosiers only make up 8.5% of Indiana’s active apprentices. A recent report for the Fiscal Policy Committee highlighted that a “participation and achievement gap remains for African Americans and other minority populations.” Even when they do these programs, they still face inequity in the workforce. Black Hoosiers experience racial disparities in their wages, with differences as large as $2,000 after graduating from adult education or technical programs. 

It’s a Catch-22. We encourage Black students to join work programs instead of college. Then in these programs, they receive lower pay, struggle to get credentialed and struggle to find lasting employment. How do we address these disparities? How do we keep Indiana from falling further behind other states? We could start by re-examining the tax cuts given to big companies or redirecting the “embarrassment of riches” given to non-transparent development projects. Just think, if we “cut the fat” on corporate tax cuts and non-transparent incentives provided for Indiana Economic Development Corporation’s (IEDC) projects we could fully fund education. College degrees are better for economic development, especially for individual wage growth than the LEAP district. 

Let’s redirect our limited resources to human infrastructure which is undoubtedly more important to Indiana’s economic success. Let's begin by funding our universities to the national average. Let’s encourage college attendance since it’s the easiest path to the middle class. Let’s provide support to those pursuing degrees or job training by fully funding child care, transportation and educational grant programs. If we continue following our current path, Indiana will fall further behind with the most adverse effects felt by Black and other marginalized Hoosiers.

Errington testifies on second draft of high school diploma proposal

Last week, on Nov. 8., the Indiana State Board of Education (SBOE) met to discuss the second draft of proposed changes to the Indiana high school diploma. At this meeting, SBOE accepted public testimony to close out the public comment period.

State Rep. Sue Errington (D-Muncie) issued the following statement following her testimony to SBOE:

“Despite repeated concerns voiced by parents, educators and community members - including through public meetings I’ve hosted in my district - the issues that matter most to Hoosiers have not been addressed in this new proposal. While the inclusion of gym and health education is a step in the right direction, the proposal still significantly weakens our state’s curriculum by removing essential world language requirements and offering vague, unworkable solutions for students’ work-based learning opportunities.

“The persistent questions remain: How will these programs be made available, particularly in rural areas of Indiana? What will transportation look like for students participating in work-based learning? How will we address the ongoing shortage of counselors? Also, why the rush to implement this without ensuring we have the right resources and structures in place? We can't afford to sacrifice the quality of education for our students.

“At a time when students are facing so many challenges, this proposal does little to provide the support they need to succeed. The lack of transparency in who developed these changes and the continued failure to address the logistical issues, like student safety and transportation, are deeply concerning.

“I’ve listened to my constituents and raised these concerns directly with the SBOE, yet there’s been little action to improve this proposal. We need more than just a diploma that checks boxes - we need a system that prepares our students for success, and this proposal misses that mark. I will continue to fight for the changes our students deserve and need to succeed.”

Garcia Wilburn invites youth to attend Council on Youth Mental Health

Hey, young people of Carmel, Fishers, and Nora: It's okay to not be okay. But there are things you can to do feel better and help those around you struggling with the same mental health problems as you.

In light of recent reports showing Indiana youth face an unprecedented mental health crisis, State Rep. Victoria Garcia Wilburn is inviting House District 32 youth to attend a youth mental health discussion with her on Monday, Nov. 18.

"We're Listening: Youth Council on the State of Youth Mental Health" will include:

• A free pizza dinner;

• An open dialogue with Rep. Garcia Wilburn on the mental health and wellbeing of you and your friends;

• Tools for advocating for more mental health support from the Indiana state government; and

• A workshop on how to cope and deal with mental health issues.

"This discussion and workshop is specifically for some of my youngest constituents – middle and high schoolers," Garcia Wilburn said. "As a mom and someone who works with kids all the time, I can see that your generation is struggling. I want to hear from you on what challenges you're facing. I'll also provide you with the tools to cope and help you move from hopelessness to hope by discussing how you can advocate for better mental health resources from our state government so that you and other kids in the future don't have to deal with this same struggle. I hope to see you there!"

"We're Listening: Youth Council on the State of Youth Mental Health" will take place on Monday, Nov. 18 from 6:15 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. at the Fishers Public Library (5 Municipal Drive, Fishers, IN 46038) in the Center Room. While the event is for middle and high school-aged youth, parents are of course encouraged to attend.

Jackson testifies on the second draft diploma proposal

Today (Nov. 8), the State Board of Education (SBOE) met to discuss the second draft of proposed changes to Indiana's high school diplomas. At this meeting, SBOE accepted public testimony to close out the public comment period. 

State Rep. Carolyn Jackson (D-Hammond) issued the following statement regarding her testimony: 

“I have been a legislator for six years. Every single year since I have been elected, there has been a massive change in education policy that requires schools to completely redirect how they are teaching our children. It is our responsibility to educate all students in this state. We are failing to meet the responsibility because we continue to move the goal post for our teachers and students. Every time we have a program in place and new goals to achieve, we change direction and expect teachers and everyone else to fall in line. If we expect students to be able to meet the goals we set for them as a state, we need to be firm in our expectations. 

“Additionally, I still have deep concerns about how this program is going to be implemented. To start, who is going to pay for these changes? For school districts already stretched thin, or for those in distressed status, this program will add extreme financial stress. Last year, citizens in my district voted against the referendum that would have increased school funding because they simply cannot afford higher property taxes. Our schools need more support from the state, not more unattainable goals.

“This diploma redesign comes at a time when our state is facing a severe shortage of school counselors. Right now, the average ratio is 694 students per one school counselor. It is virtually impossible for counselors to give each student the guidance and support they need to ensure they are on track to graduate and find success after high school. These changes will add to counselors' workload significantly as they must navigate the new system and may have to take on the additional role of staffing agent to help students find job placement in order to graduate.

“Overall, the lack of transparency and rushed timeline of this whole diploma redesign process is concerning. The most logical course of action is for the SBOE to delay finalizing this proposal until they can answer the pressing questions posed at this meeting and the last. I want to thank all of my constituents who have shared their thoughts with me on this subject, and all of the educators and concerned citizens who testified and submitted comments to the State Board of Education. I sincerely hope that the SBOE takes this feedback into account to address some of these very real issues before proceeding.”

Gore thanks veterans for their service, reminds Hoosiers of the Green Alert system

State Rep. Mitch Gore (D-Indianapolis) issued the following statement reminding Hoosiers about the Green Alert system in honor of Veterans Day: 

“The nation pauses on Nov. 11 every year to honor military veterans for their brave and selfless service to the United States of America. We owe veterans our deepest gratitude and respect for putting their lives at risk to defend the sacred principles of freedom and democracy.

“As Hoosiers take a moment to thank the veterans in their lives and their communities, I want to remind everyone of a new program in our state designed to enhance the safety of Hoosier veterans. 

“This past legislative session, I was immensely proud to have passed a bill to establish a statewide Green Alert system that went into effect on July 1 of this year. The Green Alert notifies the public when an at-risk veteran goes missing. This allows law enforcement and the community to go into the situation fully informed and with an added sense of urgency as veterans suffering from conditions such as PTSD are more likely to be experiencing a mental health crisis when they go missing.

“Those who fought for us deserve a state that supports and protects them when they come home. To all of our veterans: thank you for your sacrifice, thank you for your valor, and thank you for your service.” 

For information about what to do if an at-risk veteran in your life goes missing, visit the Green Alert homepage here.

Harris testifies on second draft of high school diploma proposal

Today, Nov. 8., the Indiana State Board of Education (SBOE) met to discuss the second draft of proposed changes to the Indiana high school diploma. At this meeting, SBOE accepted public testimony to close out the public comment period.

 State Rep. Earl Harris Jr. (D-East Chicago) issued the following statement following his testimony to SBOE:

“It’s concerning that, despite months of public feedback, the second draft still leaves critical issues unresolved. I’ve heard from parents, educators and students in my district about the lack of clarity and support in this proposal, and many of their concerns remain unaddressed.

“One key issue is the impact this proposal will have on students with individualized education plans (IEPs). These students are being overlooked in a system that is rushing to implement changes without proper planning or consideration for the resources they need. It's troubling that companies may not be equipped to understand or implement IEPs, especially considering the widespread counselor shortage and the fact that many people, may not fully understand what an IEP entails until these plans were brought up in SBOE public meetings. The proposal lacks clear guidance on how work-based learning sites will ensure these students receive the necessary accommodations. We need a more thoughtful approach—one that ensures equity for all students, particularly those who require additional support.

“I’m also troubled by the lack of rigor in this draft. This isn’t about a simple name change for diplomas; it’s about maintaining the high academic standards that help prepare our students for the future. Unfortunately, the current proposal fails to address how we will maintain that rigor while providing real, sustainable work-based learning opportunities. Also, what about the background checks required for these work placements? Students' safety is paramount, yet there's no mention of whether employers will be required to conduct these checks to ensure a safe environment. While the proposal includes provisions for these experiences, there is no requirement to ensure that students are actually hired or placed in meaningful jobs, nor is there clarity on how transportation to these sites will be handled.

“Another significant concern is funding. The proposal suggests that schools would need to prepare students for this program in half of the school year, but there is no clear funding mechanism to support the staffing and resources required to make this happen. Schools are already stretched thin, and this proposal doesn’t provide the necessary financial support to implement these changes effectively.

“We must ask: Why the rush to implement this without ensuring we have the right resources and structures in place? We can’t afford to compromise the quality of education for our students. I encourage everyone to continue to provide feedback and raise their voices to ensure that the final version of this proposal meets the needs of all students, not just a select few. The stakes are too high for us to accept anything less than a comprehensive, well-thought-out plan.”

Chronic Obesity Stakeholders Meeting highlights collaborative efforts to tackle public health challenges

Last week, on Oct. 31,  Rep. Robin Shackleford (D-Indianapolis), the Ranking Minority Member of the Public Health Committee co-hosted the first Chronic Obesity Stakeholders meeting alongside the Chairman of the Public Health Committee, State Rep. Brad Barrett (R-Richmond). The meeting brought together key experts and community leaders to address the pressing issue of obesity in Indiana by developing legislative strategies and policy interventions.

Recent statistics from the Indiana Health Department reveal that 71% of Indiana adults are overweight or have obesity, and 32.5% of Indiana youth face similar challenges. Indiana State Health Commissioner, Dr. Lindsay Weaver shared an example to illustrate this further - 71% of Indiana’s population could fill up Lucas Oil Stadium 66 times. The statewide adult obesity rate in Indiana stands at 43.6% (2018-2023), underscoring the urgent need for action to combat this critical public health issue. Alarmingly, obesity rates are notably higher in minority communities compared to rural areas, highlighting a significant health disparity that must be addressed.

The meeting featured presentations from: 

• The Indiana Department of Health;

• Life Sciences Consulting, Global Data, American Diabetes Association; 

• Franciscan Health’s Cardiology Department; 

• Jump in for Healthy Kids; 

• Feeding Indiana’s Hungry; 

• Indiana State Chapter of the ASMBS; and 

• The Diabetes Impact Project. 

Highly respected organizations gave testimonials, including: 

• Eli Lilly; 

• Marion County Health Department; 

• IU Health; Major Health Partners; 

• Joie de Vivre Medical; 

• Indiana Minority Health Coalition; 

• Eskenazi Health; and 

• Central Indiana Building Trades. 

These respected groups emphasized the necessity of immediate action, explaining the life-altering impacts of obesity, particularly among youth. Public comments were also given by individuals who expressed their concerns about addressing obesity in Indiana.

The discussions emphasized that the effects of obesity extend far beyond weight. It can lead to severe health complications and a diminished quality of life. 

Top legislative recommendations discussed include: 

• Medicaid coverage for weight loss medication; 

• Increased funding for community health workers to assist diabetic patients; 

• Implementation of nutrition and exercise standards in childcare facilities; 

• Expansion of the ISDH Produce Rx and Health First Programs; 

• Reduction of weight bias; 

• Offer insurance coverage and wellness programs for obesity care at parity with other chronic diseases; and 

• Invest in community-based programs and education campaigns.

Rep. Shackleford released the following statement on the meeting:

“I want to express my gratitude to everyone who participated in this meeting by sharing their insights and personal experiences. Your dedication to addressing this critical public health issue is deeply appreciated. 

“Heartbreaking testimonies revealed the drastic measures some young individuals have to take, with the youngest participant undergoing bariatric surgery at just four years old. If weight loss medications were covered under Medicaid, many of these children might have avoided such invasive procedures, highlighting the need for access to effective treatments.

“As we look ahead to the upcoming legislative session, I am committed to utilizing your recommendations to inform our efforts. 

“Tackling chronic obesity is not merely a health concern—it’s a collective challenge that demands our united action. Together, we can develop effective strategies that will foster healthier communities across Indiana.”

Andrade celebrates INDOT community crossing matching grants to improve District 12 roads and bridges

On Nov. 7, Gov. Eric Holcomb and the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) announced the recipients of the Fall 2024 Community Crossings Matching Grant Program. Nearly $140 million was awarded through the program, which is funded by the state’s local road and bridge matching fund.

Several communities in House District 12 will receive Community Crossings grants for Fall 2024. These funds can be used to build and improve local infrastructure projects, including roads and bridges.

The matching grant winners and amounts include:

Griffith: $325,000.00

Munster: $660,442.49

Schererville: $1,048,124.52

State Rep. Mike Andrade (D-Munster) issued the following statement celebrating the funding awardees:

“I am excited to share that House District 12 will receive almost $4 million in state funding for crucial community infrastructure improvements. This investment will go towards repairing roads and bridges, as well as initiating new projects to enhance our community. I am dedicated to securing the resources needed to strengthen our infrastructure and provide communities with the support necessary to drive transformative projects.”

Indiana House Democrats announce leadership team

Indiana House Democrats today reelected State Rep. Phil GiaQuinta (D-Fort Wayne) to serve as the Indiana House Democratic Leader. This will be GiaQuinta's fourth term as Leader, having first assumed the position in 2018.

GiaQuinta will serve alongside State Rep. Cherrish Pryor (D-Indianapolis) and State Rep. Carey Hamilton (D-Indianapolis), who were reelected as Minority Floor Leader and Minority Caucus Chair, respectively.

“I'm thankful that House Democrats have once again entrusted me to lead our efforts at the Statehouse to protect our freedoms and build up Indiana's working class. As we enter next year's budget session, Indiana House Democrats' priorities are the same as they always have been: people before profit. That means fully funding our public schools, keeping healthcare costs low and empowering our local communities to better become places where people want to live, work, play and stay.

"Given state and national election outcomes for Democrats, I'm proud we defended all 30 of our incumbent seats. I always say that House Democrats are pragmatic problem solvers. Our constituents clearly understand that we approach our work in the legislature by putting solutions before partisanship – and that will be no different this upcoming legislative session."

Indiana House Democratic Caucus leadership positions went into effect immediately following an internal election this afternoon.

The 124th General Assembly will convene for the ceremonial start of session on Nov. 19, otherwise known as Organization Day.

Klinker presents Sagamore of the Wabash Award to David M. Stevenson

On Sunday (Nov. 2), State Rep. Sheila Klinker (D-Lafayette) presented the Sagamore of the Wabash Award to longtime Lafayette resident, David M. Stevenson. Stevenson is a U.S. Air Force veteran who served in Guam during the Korean War. He and his late wife, Connie, are well-known for starting three broadcasting stations and for their service to the community. Originating in the 1940s, the Sagamore of the Wabash Award is the highest honor a Hoosier can receive from the governor of Indiana. 

Rep. Klinker released the following congratulatory statement: 

“It was my pleasure to present David Stevenson with a Sagamore of the Wabash award. David has been a force of positive reinforcement in the Tippecanoe County area. He and his late wife ministered at local churches, fundraised for veterans and started the Triangle Foundation to support non-profit humanitarian projects abroad. Along with the good he did with his wife, he’s a veteran who served two years in the Air Force during the Korean War. It was an honor to recognize David with a Sagamore for his profound commitment to our community. 

“Anyone in our community who’s had the opportunity to speak with him knows the interesting life he’s led. He traveled the country in an Airstream RV with his wife, photographed rockets for NASA, sang in Russia and traveled to 26 countries. Like David, I believe that living a life full of service is a great use of our time on God’s Earth. I thank Mr. Stevenson and the late Connie Stevenson for their contributions to the public and the impact they've made on Lafayette.”