Gutting DEI programming will hurt Indiana for years to come

When Gov. Mike Braun signed an executive order earlier this year banning diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) practices and programs in state agencies, we in the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus (IBLC) saw the writing on the wall. As a longtime lawmaker and chair of the IBLC, I know that nothing done in this building exists in a vacuum. This order from Gov. Braun signaled not only his willingness to comply with hyper-partisan D.C. culture wars, but his willingness to put politics over the lives and wellbeing of the Hoosiers he was elected to serve.

Now, just six months after his executive order, over 350 programs and positions throughout state agencies have been eliminated. These now-defunct programs include a Strategic Equity position within The Department of Child Services, a maternal health coordinator and disparities coordinator for the Indiana Department of Health and dozens of DEI training programs for Indiana educators. Beyond the classroom and doctors' offices, resources that were once available to parents who have adopted a child of a different race are now not offered to these families. This isn't about efficiency and it's not about "merit, excellence and innovation." It's an attempt to whitewash history and silence diverse voices.

We can't let that happen.

DEI isn't about giving any particular group a handout, it's about giving everyone a hand up by creating level playing fields and giving every Hoosier a fair shot at good health, a living wage and a high quality of life. The unfortunate reality is that, for many people, their race, gender, sexual orientation, ability and other factors have historically been a barrier to achieving these.

Indiana is one of the worst states in the nation for maternal mortality – an issue that disproportionally impacts Black women and women of color and we're terminating positions created to solve the problem. We're getting rid of protections against discrimination for renters and homeowners in a state plagued by a housing crisis. We're no longer going to provide our teachers with the resources they need to properly educate diverse classrooms while we're in the middle of a teacher shortage.

This isn't leadership; it's cruelty.

Not only will these actions negatively impact minority Hoosiers, it will hurt all Hoosiers for years to come. When our classrooms and hospitals are under resourced, when large swaths of people struggle to find affordable housing and when people don't have the resources they need to help themselves and their families thrive, all Hoosiers pay the price.

If we continue to go down this path, we'll see Indiana dip even lower in national rankings. Not only will the people already living and working in our state be impacted; it will actively discourage students, workers, families and businesses from bringing their talents to Indiana. Hoosiers deserve better than tired culture wars. The IBLC is calling on the governor and the Republican supermajority to focus their efforts on bringing us together, not creating more barriers that divide and weaken us.

Campbell celebrates new hospital coming to West Lafayette

Today, July 11, Indiana University Health announced the construction of a new hospital in West Lafayette. The city has no full-service hospitals within city limits, which means the nearest emergency rooms are about a 20-minute drive from Purdue University. The construction of this new hospital will bring services closer to the community, expand access to care and reduce emergency room wait times. 

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

“Our community is the fastest-growing metro area in the United States. Part of growing a community is expanding the city’s services and infrastructure. People want to live in West Lafayette, and it’s important we meet every aspect of their needs. It’s amazing news that IU Health is coming to the West Side. 

"Purdue will have a hospital close to campus, which will cut down the time of students’ ambulance rides. Our nursing homes and retirement facilities will also benefit from a closer hospital. Another emergency room will shorten wait times, and the hospital will be a great place for college students majoring in health and human sciences to work and volunteer. We will also have more doctors, nurses and specialists in our community, broadening access to care. 

“This is a great thing for West Lafayette. Thank you to IU Health for choosing our community, and I look forward to the construction and opening of our new hospital.” 

Andrade celebrates SEA 103, New law to study emissions testing and air quality standards

State Rep. Mike Andrade (D-Munster) is highlighting a new law aimed at improving Indiana’s approach to vehicle emission testing and air quality standards through a detailed statewide evaluation.

Senate Enrolled Act (SEA) 103, which Andrade sponsored, requires the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) to assess air quality in areas that do not currently meet federal Clean Air Act standards. The study will evaluate both environmental and regulatory concerns, with a goal of identifying smart ways to update outdated emissions policies while protecting public health.

The law also instructs IDEM to explore whether certain vehicle emissions exemptions, such as for older Hoosiers, can be responsibly implemented without jeopardizing federal compliance.

“This legislation allows us to take a close look at how Indiana regulates emissions and whether some policies can be improved,” Andrade said. “We know clean air is critical to our health and safety, especially in industrial regions like Northwest Indiana. But we also know some of our testing requirements may be outdated or overly burdensome. This study will help us find that balance.”

Andrade said this effort reflects a broader move toward responsible deregulation – updating systems that may no longer serve Hoosiers well while continuing to prioritize public and environmental health.

“This isn’t about rolling back protections. It’s about using real data to guide future decisions,” Andrade said. “Northwest Indiana deserves clean air and smart policy. With this law, we’re working toward both.”

Smith to serve on interim study committees

On Wednesday, members of the Indiana House of Representatives received their interim study committee assignments. Interim study committees delve deeper into specific state issues and publish reports for the upcoming legislative session. Many bills that become law during the legislative session are based on findings made by interim study committees. State Rep. Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) was assigned to the following study committees: 

• Interim Study Committee on Education

• The Indiana Commission on the Social Status of Black Males (ICSSBM)

• Distressed Unit Appeals Board

 “I’m pleased to serve on study committees again for my community,” Smith said. “This interim is especially important as we face critical impacts from federal decisions, especially in our traditional public schools. Right before the start of the school year, the federal government is withholding $107 million in education funding. After-school programs, supplemental English instruction and professional development for our teachers are in limbo. I plan on bringing the needs of our students and educators to the forefront this summer as they face insurmountable outside stressors. 

“Regarding the ICSSB, we have much to discuss with recent attacks on diversity, equity and inclusion. Yesterday, the governor announced that the state has eliminated over 70 training programs centered on inclusivity. We should strive to acknowledge and overcome our differences, especially in governance. This move will harm the space in government that the Black community has painstakingly created over the past couple of decades. 

“I plan on speaking up for my community and all Hoosiers affected by these decisions, as I do every year.” 

The ICSSBM is a year-round commission that reviews a spectrum of issues impacting Black males in Indiana. The commission has offered multiple recommendations during its 25-year history, several of which have become new laws designed to improve the economic, educational, professional and social status of Black males. Smith authored the original bill in 1993, which created the ICSSBM.

Burton appointed to key summer study committees

State Rep. Alex Burton (D-Evansville) has been appointed to the Interim Study Committees on Courts and the Judiciary and Energy, Utilities, and Telecommunications.

Burton released the following statement on committee assignments:

“I’m honored to represent Southwest Indiana on these important committees. This is a chance to dig into the data and push for solutions that make life more affordable and fairer for Hoosiers.

“I plan to revisit my proposal from the 2025 session that focused on utility affordability and review Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) reports to advocate for cost transparency and alignment with Indiana’s five pillars of energy policy.

“I am ready to serve and focus on protecting Hoosiers from losing their homes due to medical debt, emergencies or unfair processes.

“We need systems that support people through hardship, not punish them for it.”

DeLaney comments on detrimental education funding cuts

This week, the Trump administration announced that it has frozen $6 billion in education funding for K-12. Indiana stands to lose approximately $94 million for teacher development, student support, before-school care and after-school care and English language instruction.

State Rep. Ed DeLaney (D-Indianapolis), a member of the House Education Committee and the House Ways and Means Committee responsible for writing the state budget, released the following statement:

"While states across the nation are scrambling to deal with the fallout this funding freeze will have in classrooms, Gov. Braun remains cool as a cucumber.

"The governor's response to Hoosier schools potentially losing $94 million in funding was to brush it off because 'we know how to manage our funds.' I am not comforted to know that the future of Hoosier students lies in the hands of those responsible for multiple errors in estimating our income and expenses to the tune of billions of dollars.

"The governor laughs off our problem and quips that the problem is that the federal government is a bad 'long-term business partner.' Indiana ranks third in the nation for most reliant on federal funding behind Mississippi and Louisiana. I look forward to seeing the governor's plan to fix our stressed budget in light of these federal cuts which had been predicted. 

"The federal Office of Management and Budget confirmed that the reason for the freeze is to ensure that states are cooperating with Trump's agenda. After 20 years of Republican rule in Indiana, our schools are apparently promoting 'a radical leftwing agenda.' I hope our governor can get ahold of his good friend, President Trump, and ask him to treat Indiana fairly and pay timely. 

"The governor has to prefer helping Hoosiers over pandering to the White House. Sen. Lisa Murkoswsi of Alaska saved her rural hospitals and fishing fleet by pressuring the White House. Why can't Gov. Braun stand up for Hoosiers?

"Schools in Indiana are already stretched thin. Losing this funding will do nothing but harm schools, teachers, and the future of Hoosier students." 

Andrade celebrates ceremonial signing of SEA 331

Today, State Rep. Mike Andrade (D-Munster) joined Gov. Mike Braun and fellow lawmakers for the ceremonial signing of Senate Enrolled Act (SEA) 331. Sponsored by Andrade, this bipartisan legislation strengthens public safety by requiring timely updates to vehicle registration records when a passenger vehicle’s exterior color or appearance has been altered.

Andrade released the following statement on the ceremonial signing:

“As a champion for Hoosier public safety, ensuring that our roads remain safe and that our law enforcement has the tools they need is a top priority. SEA 331 modernizes our registration process and gives police vital information when investigating crimes. I’m honored to have been part of this bipartisan effort.

“I’m grateful to my colleagues in the House and Senate for working together on this commonsense legislation.”

Burton celebrates ceremonial signing of SEA 448 to expand career pathways for Indiana students

Today, State Rep. Alex Burton (D-Evansville) joined Gov. Braun and fellow lawmakers for the ceremonial signing of Senate Enrolled Act (SEA) 448 – bipartisan legislation that expands access to career pathways for Indiana students. Co-sponsored by Burton, the new law is a major step forward in equipping Hoosier youth with the tools they need to succeed after high school. 

Burton released the following statement on the ceremonial signing:

“I’m honored to be part of the much-needed solutions that give Hoosier youth expanded access to career pathways. Enhancing the systems that develop youth into working and responsible Hoosiers is a high priority for me. Every student deserves the opportunity to prepare for life beyond graduation with the skills, credentials and confidence to pursue their future, whether that’s college, a career or military service.

“SEA 448 strengthens partnerships between schools, employers and postsecondary institutions to create more accessible career pathways. By investing in these opportunities and alternative tracks to success, the legislation aims to increase stability and independence for young people across the state.

“This is about building a future where students from every school district, not just a few, can explore options that don’t always require a four-year degree right away. I’m proud to work alongside our state’s top education leaders to ensure students graduate not just with a diploma, but with direction.”

Garcia Wilburn comments on passage of federal bill stripping health care from thousands of Hoosiers

Upon the U.S. House of Representative's vote to send the "Big Ugly Betrayal" bill to President Trump's desk for signing, State Rep. Victoria Garcia Wilburn (D-Fishers) issued the following statement in response:

"As a member of the Indiana House Committee on Public Health and a health professional, I understand the critical role that Indiana's Medicaid programs, including Hoosier Healthwise, the Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP) and home-based waiver services play in keeping Hoosier families, children and seniors healthy. Thanks to the 'Big Ugly Betrayal' and other federal health care policy changes, 17 million Americans will become uninsured over the next decade, including an estimated 267,996 Hoosiers.

"Let's be perfectly clear: The vast majority of Medicaid recipients work and contribute to their communities. Most others in the program are disabled, elderly, blind or are simply children. The administrative burden that will be placed on the State of Indiana to execute these cuts will slow down eligible Hoosiers' ability to receive care in a timely manner. This will exacerbate existing, treatable conditions and ultimately drive up the cost of care for the state without improving outcomes. Hoosier families struggling to get by want a helping hand, not a handout. These cuts pull the rug out from under them.

"Additionally, 12 rural Indiana hospitals have been identified as potentially closing because of the Medicaid cuts in this bill. In a year when Indiana has already significantly cut its successful county-based public health program, I have grave concerns for the direction our state's health statistics will head if more rural health care deserts are created.

"I have been vocal all year about the danger in sweeping changes to our hospitals, our Medicaid and the lack of patient-centered decision-making in the drastic changes to how we provide care to those with autism. These federal changes will undoubtedly hurt all Hoosiers, irrespective of insurance type. The state will be left to pick up the pieces and once again 'do more with less.'" 

GiaQuinta comments on passage of federal bill selling out working Hoosier families

Upon the U.S. House of Representative's vote to send the "Big Ugly Betrayal" bill to President Trump's desk for signing, Indiana House Democratic Leader Phil GiaQuinta (D-Fort Wayne) issued the following statement in response:

"This bill may be big, but it's not beautiful. It's an ugly betrayal of the working Hoosier families who keep our state running.

"About 1.9 million Hoosiers rely on Hoosier Healthwise, the Healthy Indiana Plan and other services – a.k.a. our state's Medicaid plans – for health insurance. The 'Big Ugly Betrayal' will take away health care from 17 million Americans, including 267,996 Hoosiers.

"More Hoosiers, including children, will go hungry because of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) cuts in this bill. Our state food banks have spoken up about the devastation these cuts will cause, but Indiana's Republican delegation all voted for this anyway.

"The spin I'm hearing from Indiana's federal Republican representatives is that this is the biggest tax cut in history for working Americans. If so, why are the overwhelming majority of tax breaks going to the super-rich and corporations? And why are the billionaire and corporate tax breaks permanent, while the measly working-class benefits phase out after four years?

"Beyond selling out working Hoosier families, this bill adds trillions to the national debt, which I've always heard Republicans claim they hate to do.

"To put it briefly: This 'Big Ugly Betrayal' sends our country further and further in debt while hollowing out the working and middle class, all so Republicans' wealthy friends can pay less in taxes. It will certainly make our Indiana state budget harder and harder to balance. You can count on Statehouse Republicans to steal from the D.C. playbook and hollow out health care and food assistance while growing handouts and tax breaks for the wealthy.

"Indiana House Democrats won't stand by while working families get hurt. We'll keep fighting to protect health care and food assistance for Hoosiers, and we'll work to make sure any state budget decisions put working families first."

Burton comments on ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’: Passed the Senate, House begins final vote

State Rep. Alex Burton (D-Evansville) released the following statement ahead of the U.S. House of Representatives' vote on the 'Big, Beautiful Bill.'

“While I understand the goal of reducing Medicaid costs, the current Republican approach is misguided. What’s being proposed lacks a long-term strategy, reduces access to care and harms the most vulnerable Americans - including thousands of Hoosiers.

“Instead of cutting support, Congress should be working to reduce the number of persons under 40 on Medicaid by investing in policies that encourage meaningful employment, provide bridge services for families to stabilize and support a workforce that maintains private health coverage through employment.

“Hoosier families deserve policies that serve the majority, not just the privileged few. The health and well-being of our state is at risk when our most vulnerable neighbors lose critical resources, the average family pays more for care and the wealthiest continue to benefit from tax breaks. This bill moves us further away from 'Making Hoosiers Healthy Again.'

“Even if the intent was to root out bad actors in the system, the reality is real people will suffer. Congress had an opportunity to lead with compassion and foresight. Instead, they chose irrational and self-serving executive demands over people and families. Unfortunately, Hoosiers will feel the consequences.”

IBLC condemns program cuts due to budgetary statute

On June 30, the Commission for Higher Education (CHE) announced that more than 400 degree programs across six of Indiana's universities will be either eliminated, suspended or merged due to a statute in the state budget. The statute set a minimum threshold of graduates for all degree programs. Impacted programs include special education, policy, mathematics, African American studies, religious studies and various disciplines of engineering.

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

"Beyond just getting a degree, the purpose of higher education is to help our students become more well-rounded and prepared for our workforce and to become a productive member of their community. Whether they receive a degree in mathematics, finance or a liberal arts program, students know what the best option is for them. The state government has no right to dictate what programs colleges can and cannot offer.

"I’m concerned not only about the students who will no longer be able to benefit from a well-rounded education through these programs, but also for the university staff currently working in the impacted departments. Educators are among our state's greatest resources, and this budget puts their livelihoods in jeopardy.

"It will be difficult to undo the harm that this biennial budget has created in many facets of Hoosiers' lives, but we in the IBLC look forward to working with our colleagues to mitigate these issues during the upcoming legislative session."