Porter introduces ‘Back to the Basics’ property tax plan

Today, March 26, House Ways and Means Ranking Democrat State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis) shared his plan for property tax relief. Porter filed 11 amendments to Senate Bill 1, which he will present when the bill is scheduled for a vote in committee. 

“We have $2.6 billion in taxpayer dollars in our reserves,” Porter said. “We saved this money for a rainy day, but the weather can’t get worse for homeowners. Indiana has roughly 1.9 million homesteads. We could give every homestead $500, and we would still have well over $1 billion saved. The state can afford immediate relief. My amendments provide real relief to Hoosier homeowners while protecting public schools, fire, EMS and more.” 

The amendments center on two priorities: directing property tax relief to homeowners instead of big businesses, which receive the most relief in SB 1 and House Bill 1402, and sharing the responsibility of relief between the state and local units. The majority’s proposals would vastly reduce local government services by slashing their revenue. Republican plans encourage the local units to raise their local income tax rate (LIT), still burdening taxpayers with a different tax. These 11 amendments rebalance the funding burden between the state and local units while individually addressing the needs of homeowners.

The 11 amendments are below: 

• Amendment 27: Continues the homestead supplemental deduction, which has provided significant savings to homeowners. Alleviates the burden on local units by creating an additional tier for markedly high-assessed-value homesteads. 

• Amendment 28: Provides additional relief to renters by increasing the renter's deduction from $3,000 to $5,000. Encourages landowners to pass on property tax savings to their renters. 

• Amendment 29: Creates the business share fee that’s 10% of the corporation tax rate to recapture money lost from corporate income tax breaks. Indiana is estimated to lose $6 billion by 2030. The business share fee would fund the first-time homebuyer down payment grant program with award grants of $25,000. 

• Amendment 30: Saves money for our seniors by changing the Over 65 Circuit Breaker Tax Credit from 2% to 1%. Senior bills would be capped at a 1% increase each year.  

• Amendment 33: Creates the home ownership expenses homestead credit for each homeowner to offset the rising cost of utilities and home insurance. 

• Amendment 36: Instead of freezing or providing a sub-inflation increase for the Maximum Levy Growth Quotient (MLGQ), the percentage cap for the MLGQ would be set at 2.75% over the next three years. This means local governments would have an increase on par with inflation, ensuring they have a reliable source of revenue. 

• Amendment 37: Alternate version of amendment 36, which sets the percentage cap for the MLGQ at 3% over the next three years. 

• Amendment: Creates the state homestead credit totaling $400 million each year. The money would be sourced from the General Fund. 

• Amendment: Revives the property tax replacement credit (PTRC), renaming it the Levy Buy Down. The Levy Buy Down requires the state to pay 20% of the property tax burden for school transportation costs and 10% of public safety costs.

• Amendment: Provides a state-funded homestead property tax freeze for veterans if they have a moderate to severe service-related disability. 

• Amendment: Raises the amount school corporations can transfer from their education fund to operations fund, and vice versa, from 15% to 30%. This would free up funds to pay for day-to-day operations. including insurance, buses and computers.

“Republicans created this problem, and they don’t know how to solve it,” Porter said. “Twenty years ago, we had a PTRC,  which covered 20% of local property tax operations. Homeowners' taxes stayed low since the state paid 20 cents of every dollar, and we provided a homestead credit. Then they eliminated both credits, which pulled the rug out from under local governments. Now, the state doesn’t help our local units, shifting the cost to homeowners. 

“Statehouse Republicans don’t want to pay, but they don’t want corporations to pay either. In every plan they’ve proposed, corporations get a handout instead of homeowners getting a hand up. Homeowners have been paying for a larger slice of the property tax pie. In 2024, Marion County homeowners paid 58% of property tax collections while commercial properties paid roughly 42%. It’s time we get back to the basics and rebalance the funding burden for services between corporations, local units and the state.” 

Hamilton bill to boost workforce development, reduce recidivism signed into law

Yesterday, House Enrolled Act 1289, authored by State Rep. Carey Hamilton (D-Indianapolis), was signed into law by Gov. Mike Braun after being unanimously approved by both the Indiana House of Representatives and Indiana Senate.

HEA 1289 defines "employment social enterprises" in Indiana Code to match the federal definition. This would allow ESEs in the state of Indiana to better compete for federal funding for organizations that provide job training and services to help integrate those who were formerly incarcerated back into society. 

Hamilton released the following statement regarding the bill's signing into law:

"House Enrolled Act 1289 is about strengthening our economy through second chances.

"Employment social enterprises (ESEs) provide jobs, training, life skills and other supports to people getting back on their feet after experiences like incarceration or homelessness. Currently, ESEs are losing out on federal funding because Indiana lacks a code definition of ESEs. By defining them to match the federal definition, Indiana's ESEs will be better positioned to access federal funding to further their missions once HEA 1289 goes into effect on July 1, 2025.

"This bill was inspired by RecycleForce, a tremendous Indianapolis ESE working with formally incarcerated men and women to help them become productive members of our communities through job training in electronics recycling. My hope is that RecycleForce and our other great ESEs working throughout Indiana will be able to grow their operations and ultimately grow their impact on our state. Hoosiers exiting the justice system or recovering from homelessness want opportunities to rebuild their lives and contribute to our economy. HEA 1289 will give these people a second chance and reduce recidivism in the process.

"Thank you to the many House and Senate co-authors and sponsors who supported this bill and Gov. Braun for signing it into law. I greatly appreciate your partnership in getting this important piece of legislation across the finish line."     

Errington opposes SB 10, Fighting for college students’ right to use student IDs in elections

Today, State Rep. Sue Errington (D-Muncie) voted to oppose Senate Bill (SB) 10 in the House Elections and Apportionment Committee. In committee, Errington proposed an amendment that would remove the language that prohibits a document issued by an educational institution from being considered as proof of identification. It was voted down by a party line vote. As it stands, SB 10 would restrict college students from using their state issued student IDs to vote in elections.

Errington released the following statement on her vote:

“College students are vital members of the communities they live in, and they deserve to have a say in the elections that affect their futures. Universities like Ball State University play a crucial role in driving growth and progress in cities like Muncie, and students contribute to the vibrancy and success of our local economy. Denying them the ability to vote with the IDs they use every day would be a step backward for our democracy.

“At a time when voter participation is already appalling low, SB 10 creates yet another unnecessary hurdle for Hoosier voters. We should be making it easier, not harder, for eligible voters to participate in our elections, and I will continue to fight for the rights of college students and all Hoosiers to have their voices heard.”

Rep. Errington remains committed to protecting the voting rights of all Hoosiers and ensuring that every eligible citizen has access to the ballot box.

Boy’s HB 1380 heads to governor’s desk

Today, March 25, State Rep. Pat Boy’s (D-Michigan City) House Bill 1380 passed out of the Senate, and heads to the governor’s desk for final approval. The bill would exempt motor driven cycles and lightweight electric vehicles from the electric vehicle supplement fee.

Boy released the following statement on the advancement of the bill:

“First, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to my co-authors—Rep. Lawson, Rep. Andrade and Rep. Patterson—as well as my Senate sponsors—Sen. Doriot, Sen. Spencer, Sen. Maxwell and Sen. Ford—for their support in making this initiative possible.

"I’d also like to thank Diane Grams, a constituent from District 9, who reached out to my office during the interim to highlight an issue with a Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) fee that disproportionately impacted small electric vehicles like mopeds and e-bikes. After purchasing an electric scooter for around $2,000, Diane was surprised to learn she would be required to pay the annual electric vehicle registration fee—an amount exceeding 10% of her vehicle’s total cost. Her concerns led me to work with the BMV during the interim, and it quickly became clear that addressing this issue through legislation was the right course of action.

"I was thrilled to inform Diane that this bill passed unanimously in the House, and I’m proud to announce its advancement to the governor’s desk. This bipartisan effort will support countless Hoosiers looking to reduce their carbon footprint and make environmentally conscious transportation choices."

HB 1380 now moves to Gov. Braun’s desk for final approval.

Dant Chesser bill creating Medicare savings for seniors heads to governor’s desk

Today, March 25, House Bill 1226 passed a vote in the Senate and heads to the governor’s desk. Authored by State Rep. Wendy Dant Chesser (D-Jeffersonville), this bill creates cost-saving opportunities for seniors through “The Birthday Rule.” This rule means Medigap enrollees can switch providers without medical underwriting within 60 days of their birthday as long as they maintain the same type of lettered Medicare Supplement plan.

“As a freshman legislator, I’m excited for my first bill to head to the governor’s desk,” Dant Chesser said.  “HB 1226 will save our senior citizens money and give them some options for their Medigap coverage. Not having to undergo underwriting to switch plans could be life changing. Our seniors won’t have to answer any questions and will be approved. There’s no risk of being denied.” 

After passing unanimously in the House last month, HB 1226 passed in the Senate with a vote of 45 to 2. 

“Nine other states have already passed a birthday rule, and Indiana is one of seven states considering it this year,” Dant Chesser said. “Seniors have saved close to $800, which is huge in our current economy. Thank you to those who brought this idea forward and thank you to those who were part of the legislative process. I hope HB 1226 provides our seniors on Medicare some much-needed relief.”

Bartlett’s anti-human trafficking bill heads to Senate floor

House Bill 1416, authored by State Rep. John L. Bartlett (D-Indianapolis), passed unanimously through the Senate Committee on Corrections and Criminal Law today. The amended version of the bill requires state-owned rest areas to display human trafficking awareness posters, including in the establishment's restrooms. The bill also requires employees of food and lodging establishments to receive human trafficking awareness training approved by the Department of Homeland Security.

Bartlett issued the following statement following the vote:

"Human trafficking is one of the most heinous crimes one could commit, and unfortunately is a multi-billion dollar industry around the world. This bill is an effort to not only help workers understand the signs that someone is being trafficked and how to help them, but also lets victims of human trafficking know they aren't alone.

"Many times, a public restroom is the only opportunity someone being trafficked has to be alone. With these posters, victims have the chance to memorize the number and call for help as soon as they're able to.

"While I believe the bill was stronger before being amended in a Senate committee to remove the "shall" provision requiring private businesses to display the posters, I believe this is still a good step in the right direction.

"We all play a part in keeping one another safe. This legislation aims to help some of the most vulnerable people who live in and cross through our state, and I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate to get this bill to the governor's desk."

IBLC members take part in community conversation

Members of the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus (IBLC) will take part in a panel conversation starting at 7 p.m. ET tomorrow, March 25 at the Crossroads AME Church, 4602 College Ave.

The panel includes IBLC Chair State Rep. Earl Harris Jr. (D-East Chicago), State Rep. Carolyn Jackson (D-Hammond), State Rep. John Bartlett (D-Indianapolis) and State Sen. Greg Taylor (D-Indianapolis). The panel is free to attend and will be livestreamed here.

The group will discuss property taxes, public health policy, the current legislative session and more.

Dant Chesser grateful as jail commissary fund bill heads to governor’s desk

Today, March 24, House Bill 1208 heads to the governor’s desk for his signature. HB 1208 requires the State Board of Accounts (SBOA) to create training requirements for the sheriffs responsible for their county’s commissary funds. The bill also requires the sheriff's office to make quarterly reports of receipts and disbursements from the fund to the county fiscal body. The bill was changed in the Senate to add hard reporting dates for each quarter: April 15, July 15, Oct. 15 and Jan. 15 of the preceding year. 

State Rep. Wendy Dant Chesser (D-Jeffersonville) released the following statement: 

“I’m thankful that my House and Senate colleagues saw the value and importance of this legislation. I did not author this bill, but I supported it at every step of the legislative process. It was the actions of Jamey Noel that made me such a staunch supporter of this legislation. 

 “We can’t turn back the clock to prevent hundreds of thousands being stolen from the Clark County community. Clark County experienced a real-life tabloid scandal that’s not going away. But we can improve our laws to protect ourselves in the future. Hard reporting dates for each quarter will protect our jail commissary funds, and ensure they’re properly used for our communities. 

“I appreciate those across the aisle who worked with me and listened to my input as the representative of a community hit hard by theft and fraud. This is a good piece of legislation, and I am thankful I contributed to its passage.” 

A landmark step for Hoosier safety: Errington’s HB 1297 heads to the governor’s desk

Today, March 24, State Rep. Sue Errington’s (D-Muncie) House Bill (HB) 1297 is headed to Gov. Braun’s desk for final approval after amendments from the Senate were approved by the House. 

The bill creates a groundbreaking initiative in Indiana: the voluntary Yellow Dot Motor Vehicle Medical Information Program. This program aims to provide life-saving medical information to first responders in the critical moments following an automobile accident, significantly enhancing the safety and well-being of Hoosiers.

HB 1297 establishes a simple yet powerful tool to aid first responders: a yellow decal on the rear window of participating vehicles and a yellow envelope containing essential medical details to be kept in the glove compartment. In the event of an accident, first responders will be able to immediately access vital information about the injured individual’s medical history, allergies and conditions—helping to ensure timely, informed care during emergencies.

Errington shared her thoughts on the bill’s advancement:

“The Yellow Dot Program is a crucial step forward in ensuring Hoosiers receive the immediate care they need following a car accident. This program will enable first responders to act quickly and effectively, ultimately saving lives and enhancing the safety of our communities. HB 1297 is now on its way to Gov. Braun’s desk for final approval.

“I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support of Lt. Gov. Beckwith, whose dedication to this initiative has been invaluable. I also want to express my gratitude to my co-authors—Rep. Pressel, Rep. Harris Jr. and Rep. Karickhoff—as well as my Senate sponsors, Sen. Doriot, Sen. Alexander, Sen. Randolph, Sen. Jackson, Sen. Ford and Sen. Pol. Their continued support has been instrumental in advancing this important initiative.

“I’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the constituent in my district with Parkinson's disease who brought this critical issue to my attention and inspired this cause. A special thank you also goes to Debby Holcombe, whose passionate testimony illustrated the profound impact this program will have on families across our state. It is for people like her—and others in similar situations—that I have worked tirelessly to bring this bill to fruition, strengthening emergency response protocols and reinforcing our state’s commitment to keeping Hoosiers safe.”

HB 1297 now moves to Gov. Braun’s desk for final approval, bringing Indiana one step closer to providing a more informed and life-saving approach to emergency care.

Burton celebrates passing of SB 178 and opportunity for relief from expensive utility bills

Today, March 24, Senate Bill (SB) 178 passed out of the House and heads to the governor's desk for final approval. SB 178 would recognize natural gas and propane as clean energy sources in Indiana.

State Rep. Alex Burton (D-Evansville) released the following statement on the bill’s passage:

“For the past decade, Democrats and Republicans alike have been frustrated with the energy costs in Southwest Indiana and Evansville. We have consistently paid the most expensive utility bills in Indiana, leading some community members to move to neighboring states in the Tristate area – unable to afford the cost of living.

“To be clear, since my swearing-in, my goal in the Statehouse has been to reduce the costs of energy utility bills for Hoosiers by any means necessary. SB 178 creates a pathway of possibility that I’m proud to co-sponsor and support by adding natural gas and propane to the list of clean energy resources. This new policy change may lead to our communities in Southwest Indiana accessing grants and subsidies that ultimately reduce our monthly energy bills. 

"While some may question this policy, this piece of legislation is the first this session to offer a clear path to relief for overburdened Hoosiers. I will continue to work with my colleagues in the legislature, the Braun Administration, and the federal government to address unreasonable consumer utility costs.”

Porter bill to protect Hoosiers’ privacy heads to governor’s desk

Today,  March 24, State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis) signed House Bill 1148 to send the bill to the governor’s desk. The bill passed with a 45 to 1 vote in the Senate, and it returned to the House with no amendments. HB 1148 increases the number of years a birth certificate or record for a stillborn child is private from 75 to 99 years. 

Porter released the following statement:

“I’m grateful to my House and Senate colleagues for their support of this legislation. This bill will protect Hoosiers’ privacy by ensuring their medical records remain confidential during their lifetimes. It’s important that medical documents remain private, especially for something as traumatic and devastating as a stillbirth. 

“This bill increases the number of years a stillbirth record stays private from 75 to 99. With our life expectancies getting longer, many people were outliving that 75-year limit. Their stillbirth records were made public against their wishes. When made public, stillbirth records are often added to online databases and used for health care research. That’s incredibly damaging to these families who then relive their grief and pain as the loss of their child becomes public knowledge. 

“My bill keeps medical records confidential unless the patient chooses otherwise. I’m proud to have authored this legislation, and I remain committed to protecting Hoosiers’ privacy.” 

Campbell condemns IDOH’s decision to halt gender change requests on birth certificates

On Tuesday, March 18, the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) halted gender change requests for Indiana birth certificates. This decision follows a recent executive order from Gov. Mike Braun which requires Indiana's executive branch to “enforce the biological binary of man and woman.” 

State Rep. Chris Campbell (D-West Lafayette) released the following statement: 

“I’m disappointed by the IDOH decision to halt gender changes on birth certificates. This will have severe repercussions on the livelihoods of transgender Hoosiers. The Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) requires a birth certificate and Social Security card that reflects an individual’s preferred name and gender to issue an ID. The Trump administration stopped processing gender change requests for Social Security cards, and now Gov. Braun has implemented the same restriction for birth certificates.

"This means their IDs could be affected as well. What happens if they get pulled over and their ID doesn’t match their appearance? It will also affect their health care, work and housing. Since your insurance plan doesn’t align with the gender on your birth certificate, it can lead to denials for care deemed inconsistent with your assigned sex at birth. Landlords can request birth certificates as part of the application process, and job applications may require an ID or birth certificate. 

“Transgender Hoosiers will have to constantly explain their gender identity during processes where gender shouldn’t even be a part of the conversation. I will continue to fight to protect the rights of transgender individuals in Indiana.”