Klinker celebrates Habitat for Humanity house for Cooper Gretencord, lovingly named the ‘Klinker House’

Today, Feb. 4, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Lafayette will host an event to celebrate the completion of a home for community member Cooper Gretencord. Gretencord is challenged with diplegic cerebral palsy, and this habitat home is built with his disability in mind allowing him to live independently. The house is lovingly called the “Sheila Klinker House” since State Rep. Sheila. Klinker (D-Lafayette) encouraged Gretencord to apply for the program. 

Klinker released the following statement in congratulations:

“I had the opportunity to meet Cooper through his grandmother, Gloria Shaw, who happens to be my hairdresser. He is a wonderful young man who is always smiling. He brightens the day of everyone he meets. Lafayette is lucky to have Cooper, and we are thankful that he is a member of our community and works at the YMCA to improve people’s wellness. 

“I would also like to extend my deepest thank you to Habitat for Humanity. This is the 352nd home they have built in Lafayette, and they are providing essential services. For individuals with disabilities, accessible housing is life-changing. It’s important that we recognize the need for houses that have ramps, grab bars, clear floor spaces and other accommodations. 

“I am so thankful that Cooper was able to secure this house, and I am eager to see how he makes it a home. I am grateful to Habitat for Humanity for their kindnesses and service to the Greater Lafayette community.” 

Campbell bill allowing foster children to open bank accounts passes in committee

Today, Feb. 4, House Bill 1441 passed unanimously in the House Committee on Financial Institutions. State Rep. Chris Campbell (D-West Lafayette) authored the bill to allow foster youth who are at least 16 years old to create bank accounts without a parent or legal guardian. Minors cannot open a bank account in Indiana without an adult co-signer. 

Campbell released the following statement on the committee passage of her bill:

“Current Indiana law requires minors who want to open a bank account to do so with a parent or guardian, giving this guardian access to the account. This current policy disadvantages foster children who are often already coming from homes with financial instability. These children may be changing homes frequently or may not have a trustworthy adult to rely on. 

“Some foster children even reported that their foster parents were stealing money from their bank accounts. My bill would allow these children to create bank accounts independently. This means they’re able to practice vital skills in financial literacy without the fear of losing access to their account or getting their money stolen. This initiative will also help our high school students who are fulfilling their work requirements for the new high school diplomas. If we're requiring our students to get jobs, they should be able to have control over their hard-earned paychecks. 

“I am grateful that the bill was passed by the committee today. It shows our foster children that we in the Statehouse are not overlooking their needs. While this bill is a huge step in the right direction, I believe it is the first to ensure the protection and freedom of our foster children. I will continue to advocate and fight for the needs of all of our youth on the House floor.”

Boy’s HB1380 passes unanimously out of committee

Yesterday, Feb. 3, State Rep. Pat Boy’s (D-Michigan City) House Bill 1380 passed unanimously out of the House Roads and Transportation Committee. The bill would exempt motor driven cycles, which include electric cycles, from the electric vehicle supplement fee.

Boy released the following statement on the passage of the bill through the committee:

“The current law requires owners registering their electric bikes and owners registering their electric vehicles to pay the same expensive fee. This kind of policy punishes people looking for cheap environmentally friendly alternatives to their commutes. 

“I am grateful to see bipartisan support in the passage of this bill out of the House Roads and Transportation Committee.  This is a small change we can make in the Statehouse to encourage Hoosiers to think critically about their environmental impact and reduce their carbon footprint. Since my tenure on the Michigan City Council, I have fought for an eco-friendly Indiana; this session is no different. I will continue to create legislation to safeguard our planet and keep our air free of pollution.”

House Democratic lawmakers unveil ‘Hoosier Home Field Advantage’ legislative package

Today, several Indiana House Democratic lawmakers rolled out "The Hoosier Home Field Advantage," a set of legislative proposals designed to grow Indiana's sports economy.

State Rep. Mike Andrade (D-Munster), House Democratic Leader Phil GiaQuinta (D-Fort Wayne), State Rep. Mitch Gore (D-Indianapolis), State Rep. Earl Harris Jr. (D-East Chicago) and State Rep. Kyle Miller (D-Fort Wayne) offered the agenda to unite Hoosiers across the political spectrum, pointing out that Democrats, Republicans and everyone in between love sports.

The legislation includes:

1. House Bill 1534: Requires school corporations and charter schools to offer a cash payment option at athletic events beginning July 1, 2025

2. House Bill 1541: Prohibits IHSAA from charging for streaming high school athletic events

3. House Bill 1517: Designates the day after the Super Bowl an annual state holiday called "American Professional Football Day"

4. House Bill 1292: Establishes the Northwest Indiana Professional Sports Development Commission, which will work to attract a professional sports franchise to NWI and spur economic development and job creation

5. House Bill 1608: Requires the Indiana Economic Development Corporation to study methods and strategies to allow Indiana to become a leader in the development of the e-sports industry

Drafted amendments include:

1. An amendment by Andrade requiring the Indiana Sports Corporation to invest money received from the statewide sports and tourism bid fund as necessary to attract and promote professional wrestling events

2. An amendment by Gore to institute a sales tax exemption on children's athletic gear

"Indiana is already doing great in the sports realm, but Indiana House Democrats believe we can do even better and send our sports industry through the stratosphere," Gore said. "The 'Hoosier Home Field Advantage' is a legislative package designed to improve our sports economy and show Hoosiers that state government can be responsive to their lives and interests.

"My bill to make the Monday after the Super Bowl a state holiday will give hard-working Hoosiers an additional day off. Our national economy always takes a hit that day due to decreased worker productivity anyway. Additionally, we need to encourage kids of all economic backgrounds to participate in sports, which is why I have drafted an amendment that would provide all Hoosiers with a sales tax exemption for children's athletic gear."

"This past weekend, I had the opportunity to take my son to the WWE Royal Rumble that was hosted at Lucas Oil Stadium," Andrade said. "My son is a lifelong WWE fan, and I started taking him to pro-wrestling events when he was 5 years old and we continue the tradition of father-son time to this day. We had wrestling fans visit Indy from across the country and around the world for this electrifying event. That's why I'll be offering an amendment this session to require that the Indiana Sports Corporation invest money received from the statewide sports and tourism bid fund to attract and promote more professional wrestling events. This is a great economic growth opportunity for our state, and we need to take advantage of it."

"Parents have come to me expressing concern that some high schools no longer accept cash payment for entry into sporting events," GiaQuinta said. "This is an unnecessary barrier to Hoosiers enjoying the high school athletics that their taxes pay for, which is why I filed HB 1534 to require that schools offer a cash payment option. Likewise, Hoosiers shouldn't have to pay a fee to watch IHSAA's streaming of high school sporting events, which is why I authored HB 1541 to ensure that families and friends of athletes are able to watch them compete from afar without paying for it."

Harris' HB 1292 passed unanimously out of the House Government and Regulatory Reform Committee on Monday, Feb. 3 and was recommitted to the House Ways and Means Committee. Miller's HB 1608 is scheduled to receive a hearing in the House Commerce, Small Business and Economic Development Committee on Wednesday, Feb. 5.

Burton comments on IURC ruling approving CenterPoint’s proposed electrical utility rate increase

Today, Feb. 3, the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) ruled in favor of CenterPoint Energy’s proposed electrical utility rate increase, which will raise customer bills by $35 to $50 per month. CenterPoint Energy is the primary provider of electricity and natural gas services for Evansville, Indiana.  

State Rep. Alex Burton (D-Evansville) released the following statement on the ruling:

“Energy utility costs are already a major burden for families, especially in Evansville, where we’re facing the combined challenge of rising energy prices and increasing costs of living. With this electrical rate increase, many of our residents will be hit even harder.

“While there is no simple solution to reducing energy costs, I’m committed to exploring every possible avenue to help alleviate this pressure on our community. I will continue to work with the IURC to ensure that they understand the impact these rate hikes have on local families and the broader Evansville economy. We need to ensure that energy becomes more affordable for everyone, and I’m focused on expanding energy options and pursuing innovative policies that help achieve that goal.”

Harris, IBLC commemorate Black History Month

State Rep. Earl Harris Jr. (D-East Chicago), chair of the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus (IBLC), issued the following statement commemorating Black History Month:

“Black History Month is a time to recognize and honor the important contributions that Black and African Americans gave to history, culture, and society. It is a time to celebrate the improvements in American society to create a more equal and just playing field, while understanding that the solidarity within our community makes us stronger and pushes us on the path of unity, with equity as a distant goal.

“Each session the IBLC focuses our agenda on improving the lives of Black and African Americans throughout the state. Our 16-member caucus has filed legislation that will improve the lives of those within our communities. Legislation drafted by the caucus will benefit the community as a whole by taking a step in the right direction in achieving health equity. This year’s agenda: "Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds", is designed to increase access to health care, address health disparities, improve health outcomes for at-risk residents, bring more physicians to lower income communities and enhance funding for mental health care; These are issues our communities and cities have been asking the legislature to address.

“Black History Month also serves as a reminder that we must be mindful of the significant work that we still have to do. In a time that may seem unfamiliar to some, many of us realize that we’ve been here before. In a time overshadowed by an administration so eager to dismiss the inequalities so many face in education, the workplace, banks, housing and in our day-to-day lives; we must remain on the path of unity to overcome the injustices we face today.

"Black History Month celebrates the achievements of Black and African Americans, highlighting resilience, creativity, and contributions. It is a time to not only honor the past, but most importantly build upon it. Together, we can create a better, more equitable future. The Indiana Black Legislative Caucus invites all to reflect on the history, contributions, and strength of Black and African Americans, not just during this month but every day of the year."

Harris bill to bring professional sports development commission to northwest Indiana passes out of committee

House Bill 1292, authored by State Rep. Earl Harris Jr. (D-East Chicago), passed unanimously out of the House Committee on Government and Regulatory Reform today and now heads to the House Ways and Means Committee for further debate.

The bill would establish the Northwest Indiana Professional Sports Development Commission to study plans and recommendations to bring professional sports franchises to the Region.

Harris offered the following statement after the vote:

"This bill builds on the legacy of my father, Rep. Earl Harris Sr., who worked to make this a reality for many years. Bringing professional sports to northwest Indiana would not only be a huge benefit for sports fans, it would bring money, business, tourism and endless opportunities for our community. This will also inspire our students by opening doors to careers in sports management, marketing, hospitality and countless other fields. This is an opportunity to give our students a pathway to success right here in their hometown.

"I'm thankful to say that this is a bipartisan bill with three Republican co-authors. This work is a testament to the good we can do for Indiana when we work together to strengthen our communities, expand our workforce and bolster our local economies. I look forward to furthering this discussion on the House floor."

Smith passes two education amendments on HB 1002 on the House floor

On Thursday, Jan. 30, the Indiana House of Representatives adopted two amendments drafted by State Rep. Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) to House Bill 1002. HB 1002 eliminates several education programs, reduces oversight and removes important student and teacher provisions supporting civics, arts and mental health programs in schools throughout the state.

Both of the amendments Smith offered to HB 1002 were passed on the House floor. His first amendment restores legal language requiring schools to report incidents in which an educator is injured by a student to the state. 

In his second successful amendment, Smith restored legal provisions requiring the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) to develop cultural competency training for school staff.

"I am pleased that Chairman Behning and the rest of the House were open to working with me on these changes," Smith said. "It's critical that we track teacher injuries. They have a right to a safe work environment just like any other profession, and if we have data, then we can take action to solve problems that may arise.

"Second, requiring cultural competency training for educators and staff is essential if we are going to deliver on our state's promise of a good education for all students. If teachers aren't trained on how to properly serve students from different races, creeds or economic classes, how can they best serve our students? I am thankful our chamber agreed with me on this principle today in a bipartisan vote."

Smith encourages students to page at the Statehouse this session

State Rep. Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) is looking for local students from House District 14 to come down to the Statehouse to join the page program. The page program is an opportunity for students aged 13 to 18 to meet their state representative and learn about the legislative process. Pages also help their representative carry out tasks on the House floor. 

“I have been blessed to work with the best and brightest students at the Statehouse during my tenure,” said Smith. “As a former educator and administrator, I deeply enjoy the opportunity to teach our youth about the legislative process. Our students can learn about state government by being immersed in it. Any student who is in K-12 and at least 13 years old is invited to participate in the day-long program.

“I hope to see students from my community participate in this program. One of my favorite parts of the legislative session is getting to meet and work with these student pages. I look forward to meeting every student participating in this great program.”

Those interested in being a page for the Indiana House of Representatives can click here for more information or to apply online. 

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.”

Pryor reacts to Braun’s first State of the State

Yesterday evening, Indiana’s new governor, Mike Braun, gave his first State of the State address. Since his inauguration on Jan. 13, Braun has issued an array of harmful executive orders aimed at promoting Washington’s culture war agenda at the expense of Hoosiers. These actions include banning diversity, equity and inclusion programs. During the speech, the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus held a Unity Rally with community leaders and advocates.  

“In the few short weeks since Mike Braun was inaugurated as governor, he has spread a message of division and hate through the rash executive orders he has issued. This State of the State address followed the same tune. 

“Unsurprisingly, he continued his crusade against diversity by implying that diversity, equity and inclusion are the opposite of merit, excellence and innovation. 

“His so-called ‘Freedom & Opportunity Agenda’ does nothing but restrict freedom and opportunities for minority communities, women and any Hoosier who relies on the state for services. The careless slashing of government programs will not increase efficiency as he claims, but will make government less accessible for those who are most in need. 

“While I am in disagreement with the governor’s attitude and assumptions about the need for diversity, there are some ideas that I am glad made it to his agenda. For too long, Hoosiers have been struggling to keep up with rising property taxes brought on by a broken system. I have been working for years on solutions to give Hoosiers property tax relief. We should all join together in focusing on the issues that matter for every day Hoosiers, not issues that seek to divide us. 

“I was proud to stand beside my fellow members of the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus as we held a Unity Rally yesterday evening. We joined together with community advocates, leaders and fellow legislators to demonstrate to our governor that we will not stand by while the principles of equality are condemned. 

“Every Hoosier deserves to be celebrated for their unique identity. I will always be committed to making Indiana a welcoming state for people from all walks of life to thrive." 

Porter comments on Braun’s decision to eliminate Commission on Race and Gender Fairness from his budget

On Thursday, Jan. 16, Gov. Mike Braun presented his “Freedom and Opportunity” budget proposal to the State Budget Committee (SBC). This budget eliminates funding for the Commission of Race and Gender Fairness. The 2023 budget allocated close to $880,000 per year of the biennium for this commission, and $500,000 of this yearly allocation is used for court interpreters. 

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

“I continue to delve deeper into Braun’s budget proposal, and each time I find something new that’s disturbing. He has once again demonstrated that one of his priorities is slashing programs that benefit minority populations. I fear those ordering these decisions fail to understand the unintended consequences this has on Hoosiers.

“Eliminating this commission will make it immensely difficult for non-English speakers to make their case in our judicial system. Indiana courts are required by law to provide interpreters, but they’ll struggle to do this without adequate funding. We have non-English speakers living in Indiana, and they have a right to a fair trial like their English-speaking peers. Everybody deserves a timely, equitable trial in our court of law regardless of their background. 

“This decision is an intrusion into the judicial branch, which is made more troubling by Braun’s increased funding for prosecutors. The number of prosecutors and potential prosecutions will increase, but protections in our criminal justice system are being eroded. There’s been a clear path of this administration that’s extremely troublesome to Hoosiers. From cutting funding from commissions that fight discrimination to not renewing Martin University’s funding. 

“These decisions hinder lawmakers, like me, from creating real economic relief for Hoosiers. These moves don’t lower the price of rent, gas or eggs. I’ll continue fighting tooth and nail to protect historical progress while still working on tangible relief for Hoosiers.”