Shackleford files 2025 bills focused on public health, tenant rights and Hoosier wellness

With the official start of the 2025 legislative session, State Rep. Robin Shackleford (D-Indianapolis) has filed bills on several key areas including public health; tenant rights and protections; and overall health and wellness for Hoosiers.

Chronic Obesity:

In Oct. 2024, Rep. Shackleford co-hosted the Chronic Obesity Stakeholders Meeting (COSM), bringing together experts to discuss initiatives that enhance access to effective healthcare interventions, improve nutrition and physical activity opportunities for children and address systemic barriers affecting underserved populations. A report generated from the meeting highlighted key legislative recommendations, including the long-term cost savings of addressing obesity, the need for stronger school nutrition standards and the importance of expanding access to preventative care and obesity treatments through the state Medicaid program.

As a result, Shackleford has proposed multiple pieces of legislation aimed at addressing chronic obesity, including, House Bill (HB)1202, which seeks to expand Medicaid coverage for obesity treatments, ensuring that more Hoosiers have access to the care they need.

“In 2022, obesity’s economic impact in Indiana was estimated at $9.3 billion, with $996 million directly affecting the state budget,” Shackleford said. “The disease drives up medical expenses, disability costs, and government spending on Medicaid and other public assistance programs. Expanding access to comprehensive obesity treatments through the SEHP and Medicaid, along with other interventions, could save taxpayer dollars and improve overall health outcomes for Hoosiers.”

In a presentation at the COSM, Tim Dall, Executive Director of Life Sciences Consulting at Global Data, highlighted that even a modest 5% weight loss could reduce the prevalence of chronic diseases like diabetes by 30% over the next decade, saving approximately $8 billion in medical costs. More substantial weight loss (20-25%) could result in an estimated $20 billion in economic savings within the same timeframe.

House Bill 1138 expands health coverage for state employees by mandating that their health plans cover anti-obesity medications and intensive behavioral and lifestyle therapies for eligible individuals.

House Bill 1139 focuses on improving Hoosiers' health by expanding the Indiana Department of Health’s (IDH) Pilot Produce Rx program that helps individuals be prescribed healthy food as medicine.

Shackleford’s legislation also focuses on improving the overall health and wellness of Hoosiers. One initiative aims to improve local wellness initiatives in schools, ensuring that students have access to health and wellness programs that promote a healthy lifestyle and positive learning environment. House Bill 1163 prioritizes student wellness by creating a fund that provides financial support to schools for implementing local wellness initiatives.

Public Health:

HB 1048 proposes an increase in personal allowances for Medicaid recipients and Hoosiers residing in health care facilities, raising the current allowance from $52 to $100 per month. This increase will help individuals purchase essential items not covered by Medicaid, improving their quality of life.

House Bill (HB) 1065 aims to support cancer patients by establishing a framework for organizations to provide financial assistance to those participating in clinical trials. This bill also requires the Indiana Department of Health to offer guidance and resources for program implementers. 

House Bill 1161 addresses the quality of care for home healthcare recipients by establishing a licensure program for home health aides, ensuring all aides are properly trained and qualified.

House Bill 1246 would establish a comprehensive student support program. This program would work to improve teacher-to-student ratios, enhance school safety and increase professional development opportunities of schools across the state. 

Tenant Rights:

Shackleford’s legislation also includes provisions aimed at strengthening tenant rights – a pressing issue in Indiana. Currently, on average, only 4% of tenants are represented in eviction proceedings, compared to 83% of landlords. However, when tenants receive legal representation, their chances of staying in their homes increase significantly—evidenced by the 84% of tenants in New York City who remain in their homes with representation. House Bill 1140 would provide funding for counsel when tenants are facing eviction. 

The Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority would administer these programs. Additionally, House Bill 1162 seeks to protect renters by capping excessive rent increases, limiting both the percentage of increase and the frequency with which rents can be raised in a given year. These measures will provide more stability and security for tenants across Indiana.

“I am proud to have introduced legislation that addresses critical needs across our state. From ensuring cancer patients in underserved areas to expanding access to healthy food, these bills reflect my commitment to improving the wellbeing of all Hoosiers. After all, health truly is wealth. By working together, we can build a healthier, stronger and more equitable future for our communities.”

Bartlett outlines 2025 legislative agenda

State Rep. John L. Bartlett (D-Indianapolis) announced his 2025 legislative agenda, which includes bills enhancing public safety, creating harsher penalties for law enforcement officers found guilty of certain crimes and increase transparency between law enforcement and the general public.

 Bartlett's bills include:

• House Bill 1047 would require immediate drug and alcohol testing for law enforcement officers who use deadly force during the pursuit or apprehension of an individual

• House Bill 1096 enhances the sentence for a law enforcement officer found guilty of a sexual offense

• House Bill 1416 would require gas stations to display human trafficking awareness posters

• House Bill 1046 would ensure state educational institutions have a diverse supplier network

• House Bill 1199 requires law enforcement to contract with mental health providers to assist in calls related to a mental health crisis or a substance use disorder crisis

 Bartlett issued the following statement regarding his legislation:

"Public safety is always top of mind for me. When it comes to law enforcement, I believe the vast majority of officers are doing good work and have good intentions for the communities they serve. House Bill 1047 and House Bill 1096 would ensure that the small number of officers who seek to abuse their power will face harsher penalties for breaking their oath to protect and serve.

 "Across the country, we continue to hear terrifying stories of human trafficking. From forced labor to sexual abuse, we need to be doing everything in our power to prevent this heinous crime from occurring. House Bill 1416 would require gas stations throughout the state to display awareness posters to alert staff and the general public of the warning signs of human trafficking.

“We all play a part in keeping our communities safe, and I'm proud to say my legislation this year is focused on helping to keep Hoosiers and those traveling through our great state safe."

DeLaney reacts to the Braun budget: ‘It focuses on the wrong things’

Today (Jan. 16), Governor Mike Braun presented his “Freedom and Opportunity” budget proposal to the State Budget Committee (SBC). 

State Rep. Ed DeLaney (D-Indianapolis) released the following statement: 

“While there are parts of this budget that I am pleased with, it focuses on the wrong things. This budget chooses to favor people who will benefit very little from tax cuts while leaving our younger generation out in the cold.  

“The true worthwhile investment is in helping young families buy a home and find someone to look after their kids while they make an income and participate in the economy. These proposed tax cuts help those who have already saved at the expense of those trying to save. 

“One thing that particularly disturbed me is the proposed cut in funding for our new public health programs. Investing in public health and preventative care is not only beneficial for individual quality of life but relieves pressure on the budget going forward. 

“Between 2018 and now, the state contribution to Medicaid has gone from $2 billion to $5 billion. If we want to rein in the amount we spend on Medicaid, the solution is not to kick people off of it but help them to grow off of it. Our Medicaid system is so strained because we have a very low median income. 

“The bottom line is that we don't bother to look at the full chessboard because we are distracted by the most current problem. We must focus more on getting poorer families higher incomes, and less on better-off families having tax savings. This budget does not do that." 

Miller responds to Braun’s DEI executive order

State Rep. Kyle Miller (D-Fort Wayne) issued the following statement regarding Gov. Mike Braun's executive order that prohibits Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) practices and closes the Chief Equity, Inclusion and Opportunity Office created by former Gov. Eric Holcomb in 2020:

 "Gov. Braun didn't waste any time bringing D.C. politics back to Indiana. We hear all the time that Indiana's not like Washington, and that we work to get important work done without getting mired in the muck. With Mike Braun and Micah Beckwith, we may not be able to say that much longer.

 "I doubt many Hoosiers knew, or cared, that the state had a Chief Equity, Inclusion and Opportunity Office. It seems to me like they care more about their high grocery and gas prices, or that this state ranks near the bottom in education and health care. The more well-respected governors in Indiana have focused on economic policies rather than divisive social policies.

 "Hopefully, Gov. Braun gets this out of his system early and we can get back to talking about things Hoosiers actually care about."

Porter comments on Gov. Braun’s budget proposal

Today, Jan. 16, Gov. Mike Braun's team presented his “Freedom and Opportunity” budget proposal to the State Budget Committee (SBC). 

State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis) released the following statement on the proposed budget:

“I’ll give him credit where it’s due. There are a couple of things he proposed that House Democrats support. He wants to put an end to the IEDC’s blank check by not re-upping two of their funds and eliminating the other two. I’ve abstained from voting to confirm the SBC agenda multiple times due to millions of dollars in non-transparent IEDC requests. I’m supportive of fully funding the 76,000 children on the waitlist for the Child Care Development Fund (CCDF).

“But a majority of his budget, I cannot and will not support. By ‘doing more with less,’ spending will be cut for programs Hoosiers desperately need. There was no school funding formula, and his proposed $9 billion would not cover a 2% increase for K-12 education. He wants to cut our grants for public health, flat-line food banks and CHOICE and cut each agency by 5% with no exemptions. We’re not renewing the READI grants which helped fund vital infrastructure and public works in our rural communities. It sounds like we’re doing less with less. 

“Under this budget, Indiana will continue to be among the worst states for quality of life. We will continue to prioritize tax cuts for the wealthy over the needs of the middle and working class. It doesn’t matter if we live in a low-tax state if you can’t afford a house or find a job to be taxed on. 

“I’m not in the interest of cutting spending simply because of sentiment on Capitol Hill when Indiana is doing leaps and bounds better with positive revenue growth and a robust surplus. Our social programs, like Medicaid, are growing in enrollment because Hoosiers need them. We can craft a budget that provides for our communities while still being fiscally responsible.” 

Dant Chesser files 2025 bills focused on government ethics and affordability

With 2025 being her first legislative session, State Rep. Wendy Dant Chesser (D-Jeffersonville) has hit the ground running. Dant Chesser has filed eight pieces of legislation, three of which focus on increasing fiscal responsibility in local offices.

House Bill (HB) 1429 would require local elected officials to take an ethics training course from the State Board of Accounts (SBOA) every two years. HB 1431 would change the reporting requirements for campaign finance reports for those running for local offices.  An additional bill, HB 1227 would increase the reporting requirements for the use of commissary funds by a local sheriff’s office. 

“I’m thankful for the opportunity to be at the Statehouse and to author legislation for our community,” Dant Chesser said. “Southern Indiana is my home and there are some issues we can improve upon for our fellow Hoosiers. We can do more to protect people's tax dollars and make sure they’re used appropriately. This past year is evidence that we need better systems in place to stop fraud and theft. Our community temporarily lost ambulatory and fire services due to fraud which, in good conscience, we cannot let happen again. To better protect our community, I authored three bills to increase fiscal responsibility and encourage ethical leadership.”  

Other bills authored by Dant Chesser focus on affordability and social programs. HB 1430 would create The Employee Child Care Assistance Partnership program to help families afford quality child care. HB 1226, similar to an existing bill in Kentucky, Oklahoma and several states, would protect Hoosiers over 65 from higher rates and denied claims for their Medicare supplement insurance. 

“There’s more we can do for people who are struggling to pay their bills,” Dant Chesser said. “Property taxes, utilities, rent and other bills are skyrocketing, severely affecting our senior citizens and those on fixed incomes. The cost of child care is unbelievably high with parents typically spending around $11,000 a year on one child. This is a difficult time when everyone is experiencing financial pressure. The state legislature should do everything in its power to give people some much-needed breathing room.” 

A full list of Dant Chesser’s legislation is below:

1. HB 1225: Pension Garnishment for Restitution

2. HB 1226: Medicare Supplement Insurance 

3. HB 1227: Jail Commissary Fund Reporting 

4. HB 1228: Hunting Licenses for Disabled Veterans 

5. HB 1429: Ethics Training for Local Officials

6. HB 1430: Employee Child Care Assistance Partnership Program

7. HB 1431: Campaign Finance Reports

8. HB 1560: Straight Ticket Voting 

“My goal for this year is to work across party lines and tackle the problems facing Hoosiers,” Dant Chesser said. “As proposed, my legislation is a step in the right direction, and I look forward to working hard for my community. I encourage residents of House District 71 to reach out to my legislative office with their thoughts and concerns. As your state representative, I am your voice in Indianapolis.” 

The community can contact the office of State Rep. Wendy Dant Chesser by email at h71@iga.in.gov or by phone at 1-800-382-9848. Members of the community can also subscribe to her newsletter at repwendydantchesser.substack.com. 

GiaQuinta responds to Gov. Braun’s DEI executive order

Yesterday, Gov. Mike Braun issued an executive order eliminating Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) practices in state agencies, replacing them with "Merit, Excellence and Innovation." The order also closed the Chief Equity, Inclusion and Opportunity Office created by former Gov. Eric Holcomb in 2020.

House Democratic Leader Phil GiaQuinta (D-Fort Wayne) issued the following statement regarding the order:

"I respect that the governor has the right to set the tone for his new administration. Thinking of the myriad issues Hoosiers are facing, though, I can't understand why this is a top priority. These practices ensure all Hoosiers are given opportunities and allow us to measure how equitable our state is. No one is harmed by a more equitable, just state.

"Our staff in the House Democratic Caucus attended a workshop led by the Chief Equity, Inclusion and Opportunity Office and found it to be insightful and helpful in our day-to-day work addressing the needs and lived experiences of Indiana residents. The closure of this office and the dismantling of DEI practices is nothing but a distraction from the real issues Hoosiers face throughout our state.

"The Indiana House Democratic Caucus is concerned with tackling high property taxes, health care costs and providing all Hoosier kids with a good education. That's what our constituents tell us they're concerned about, and our goal is to work for them, not fight the Washington D.C. culture wars that leave working Hoosiers caught in the crosshairs.

"I look forward to working with Gov. Braun to improve the lives of Hoosiers and make Indiana a stronger, more inviting place for families, workers and businesses. Unfortunately, this executive order is leading us in the wrong direction."

Errington files 2025 bills focused on AI, wage transparency and environmental issues

Last week, the Indiana General Assembly (IGA) officially started the 2025 legislative session. State Rep. Sue Errington (D-Muncie) has filed bills aimed at addressing key issues in education, wage transparency and environmental sustainability.

House Bill (HB) 1296 seeks to enhance the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. This bill would require the Department of Education (DOE) to establish guidelines and model policies for AI use in schools, create an inventory of AI platforms with detailed information on their capabilities, and implement a review process for teachers and school administrators to submit AI platforms for inclusion in the inventory.

Another piece of legislation, HB 1300, addresses wage transparency and aims to reduce pay disparities. Under this bill, employers would be prohibited from using an applicant’s previous wage history to determine their salary, with certain exceptions. It also mandates that employers disclose wage ranges for positions, ensuring a more equitable and transparent hiring process.

HB 1302 targets environmental concerns by limiting the use of single-use plastics in restaurants and third-party food delivery services. This bill would require these businesses to only provide non-plastic single-use items, such as straws, condiments and utensils when explicitly requested by customers.

House Joint Resolution (HJR) 2 would allow Indiana voters to propose changes to the Constitution of the State of Indiana and state statutes without needing approval from the IGA. Indiana voters would then be able to vote on constitutional amendments, in the same way as Ohio voters can, on issues such as abortion.

A full list of Errington’s legislation is below:

1. HB 1295 Licensed electrologists

2. HB 1296 Artificial intelligence inventory and policies

3. HB 1297 Motor vehicle medical information program

4. HB 1298 Contraceptive coverage

5. HB 1300 Wage history and wage range

6. HB 1301 Utility votes at RTO meetings

7. HB 1302 Restriction on single-use food service items

8. HB 1303 Sexual health education

9. HB 1527 State efficiency standards

10. HJR 2 Initiatives and referendums

Errington released the following statement regarding her legislative agenda:

“I am proud to introduce legislation that addresses some of the most pressing issues facing our communities today. From tackling environmental challenges and protecting applicants from wage disparities to leading the way on responsible AI usage in schools, these bills reflect my commitment to fostering a fairer, safer and more sustainable future for all. We must not only recognize the potential benefits of AI but also understand and mitigate its risks. We must support our educators, administrators and students with the tools and training they need to navigate this technology responsibly. Similarly, by promoting wage transparency and reducing reliance on outdated salary histories, we can work to close the wage gap and ensure fairness in hiring practices for all Hoosier workers.”

IBLC comments on Gov. Braun’s DEI executive order

Today, Jan. 15, Gov. Mike Braun issued an executive order replacing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) practices in state government with "MEI": Merit, Excellence and Innovation. Braun's executive order requires state agencies to examine policies and procedures to ensure compliance, as well as closes the Chief Equity, Inclusion and Opportunity Office created by former Gov. Eric Holcomb in 2020.

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

 "Out of all of the very-real issues Hoosiers are currently facing: poor health outcomes, poverty and a lack of affordable housing, it's extremely troubling that our new governor is starting his tenure by attacking measures to make state agencies reflective of our communities.

 "Based on the 2020 Disparity Study conducted for the Indiana Department of Administration, it's clear to me that Indiana is not meeting its goals for equitable hiring and contracts. Let's be clear: DEI practices are not about giving any group of people a handout, it's about helping people who have been historically overlooked a hand up.

 "Gov. Braun's pivot to 'Merit, Excellence and Innovation' creates an insidious, false narrative that DEI leads to unqualified individuals getting promoted based only on their race or nationality. This is not and has never been the case, and the insinuation is not only deeply offensive, but harmful to minority workers throughout the state.

 "We should all strive to create a talented, diverse workforce that reflects the makeup of our communities. When we have more insights, ideas and voices in our state agencies, all Hoosiers are better off."

Klinker files 2025 legislation, continues commitment to public education and working Hoosiers

As a seasoned lawmaker, State Rep. Sheila Klinker kicked off the 2025 legislative session by filing five pieces of legislation. 

In light of teachers leaving the profession due to low pay, changing expectations and daily stress causing burnout, Klinker authored House Bill (HB) 1258, which would require a school corporation to raise the teacher compensation amount to 70% of their state tuition support. 

“I’m honored to once again represent the Lafayette community,” Klinker said. “I am blessed that so many continue to trust me with their families' futures. The most important way we prepare our youth for the future is inside the classroom. Indiana is experiencing a teacher shortage, and our current teachers are leaving the profession. Many young adults are choosing not to pursue a teaching degree due to low pay. Teachers are an essential part of the workforce; we must pay them a salary that reflects their critical importance.” 

Klinker also filed HB 1256 which increases the college savings tax credit from $1,500 to $2,500 for the College Choice 529 savings plan. Klinker helped pass the original legislation that created this savings plan in 1997. 

“The price to attend a university has increased. Many of our youth are deep in student loan debt or working multiple jobs to earn their degree. Families who start a College Choice 529 savings plan should be rewarded for choosing to put their hard-earned income towards their child’s education. I authored HB 1256 to encourage more Hoosiers to start saving for college and to give a helping hand to those who are saving ahead.” 

A full list of Klinker’s legislation is below:

1. HB 1255: Property Tax Exemption for Qualified Veterans

2. HB 1256: College Savings Tax Credit 

3. HB 1257: Epilepsy Foundation Trust License Plate 

4. HB 1258: Teacher Compensation 

5. HB 1291: Rape Kit

The community can contact the office of State Rep. Sheila Klinker by email at h27@iga.in.gov or by phone at 1-800-382-9848. 

Campbell files 2025 bills focused on mental and public health

With 2025 being her fifth legislative session, State Rep. Chris Campbell (D-West Lafayette) has hit the ground running. Campbell has filed nine pieces of legislation, five of which focus on mental and public health.

“I’m thankful for the opportunity to be at the Statehouse again to improve West Lafayette,” Campbell said. “We have a great community, great resources and amazing public schools, but some areas do need improvement. We must protect our most vulnerable groups and ensure our neighbors can receive the health care they need without breaking the bank. This year I prioritized legislation that focuses on affordable, quality care.”

House Bill (HB) 1438 would require medical providers to provide a patient’s medical record in the format they requested, if readily producible. The bill prohibits a third party from charging more than $2.50 for a paper medical record and $6.50 for an electronic copy. The bill also requires a provider to provide a free medical record if the patient is applying for Social Security insurance disability benefits or Supplemental Security Insurance. 

“Hoosiers already suffering from high medical costs should not have to pay for their personal records,” Campbell said. “It’s information about their body, and they shouldn’t be charged for a copy. Not to mention that many medically complex individuals need these records just to apply for necessary benefits.” 

HB 1444 would remove language from Indiana’s gender-affirming care ban that prohibits doctors from knowingly providing gender transition care or “aiding or abetting” in the provision of care. The current law bars physicians from discussing patient care with other providers, including those out of state, and the patient themselves. HB 1444 would ensure doctors have all the information they need to treat their patients.

“We as the legislative body are doing our young Hoosiers a great disservice by banning their access to necessary forms of health care. Our government has no role in telling parents and medical professionals what health care they are and aren’t allowed to provide children. Limiting a provider's ability to communicate about their patient’s health care creates a dangerous health care environment, leading to poor health outcomes. Our transgender youth deserve to know that they are not only welcome but valued in Indiana, and I will continue to fight for our trans community on the house floor. 

HB 1442 requires the owner of a recovery residence to register with the Division of Mental Health and Addiction (DMHA). It also requires the DMHA to post a list of recovery residences on its website and adopt rules concerning the investigation of certain complaints, and the issuance, denial and revocation of registrations. 

“People recovering from addiction and seeking out recovery services are entitled to know whether their recovery residence is qualified to help them start their new beginning. HB 1442 would ensure that these programs have the resources and facilities to help those seeking help take the necessary steps to recovery.”

A full list of Campbell’s legislation is below:

1. HB 1437: Township Maximum Property Tax Levy.

2. HB 1438: Medical Record Fees.

3. HB 1439: Information Concerning Cytomegalovirus 

4. HB 1440: Suicide Prevention Materials. 

5. HB 1441: Bank Accounts for Foster Children. 

6. HB 1442: Registration of Recovery Residences.

7. HB 1443: Eligibility for Foster Care Maintenance.

8. HB 1444: Gender Transition Procedures for Minors. 

9. HB 1445: Regulation of Animal Blood Banks. 

Campbell also co-authored HB 1268 requiring the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to study groundwater and water withdrawals. 

“I look forward to working hard for my community. I encourage residents of House District 26 to reach out to my legislative office with their thoughts and concerns.” 

The community can contact the office of State Rep. Chris Campbell by email at h26@iga.in.gov or by phone at 1-800-382-9848. 

Porter comments on Comptroller’s mistake affecting $20 million in funding for Gary, East Chicago, Michigan City and Hammond

Today, Jan. 15, the Indiana State Comptroller, previously called the State Auditor, testified in front of the House Ways and Means Committee. During the testimony, it was revealed that the office failed to properly distribute deficiency payments to certain communities. The City of Gary will be required to pay $20 million to East Chicago, Michigan City and potentially Hammond due to this mistake. 

State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis) released the following statement: 

“I’ve served for several decades, and this is not the first time our comptroller has made an egregious error. I’m getting déjà vu since two accounting errors were made by the executive branch, the Department of Revenue and the auditor in 2011 and 2012. The state corporate income tax and local income taxes were collected, put into certain accounts and then lost. We couldn’t find over $500 million that we needed for the budget. We had to hire a private accounting firm to find that funding.  

“Now, the same type of mistake has happened. Two casinos were moved from Gary to I-94 impacting existing casinos in Hammond, East Chicago and Michigan City. To mitigate potential revenue losses, the legislature chose to provide the affected communities with deficiency payments from 2022 to 2025. 

“The state comptroller never triggered these payments. Now we’re scrambling to get these communities close to $20 million. If the law does not change, the funding will be taken from Gary slashing their 2025 budget of $66 million by close to a third. 

“Again, I don’t know why there was a lapse in practice despite spending thousands for a firm to prevent additional errors. I’m sure this mess will be cleaned up, and communities will receive their entitled funds. 

“But a couple of things must be guaranteed. Gary, who is not at fault, should be able to repay the funds over several years, preferably through a 20-year rainy-day loan with no interest. Michigan City and East Chicago should receive an immediate one-time payment from the state including interest. Why shortchange our cities when the state didn’t do its job? Since House Democrats represent all of the affected communities, it’s only right that we have a seat at the table in crafting a solution.”