Andrade Honors Hammond Hispanic Community Committee of Northern Indiana

On Sept. 27, State Rep. Mike Andrade (D-Munster) honored the Hammond Hispanic Community Committee of Northern Indiana (HHCCNI) with a proclamation recognizing its decades of service, leadership and dedication to uplifting Hispanic families across Lake County and the region.

Founded in 1993, HHCCNI has become a cornerstone of support for Northern Indiana’s Hispanic community. Through volunteerism, education, cultural pride and access to essential resources, the organization has strengthened families and expanded opportunities for generations.

Led by an all-volunteer board, including President Deborah Trevino, Vice President Jerame Hicks, Treasurer Joe Alamillo and Secretary Linda Padilla, HHCCNI has continued to grow its reach throughout Lake County. Signature programs such as the Latino Resource Fair, now in its 22nd year, connect more than 350 attendees with over 65 vendors and provide critical funding for scholarships.

In 2025, HHCCNI marked a milestone with the 9th annual scholarship banquet, awarding a record $32,000 to students across Northern Indiana. This achievement underscores the organization’s expanding impact, helping ensure the next generation of leaders has the tools to succeed.

Andrade released the following statement:

“For more than 30 years, HHCCNI has been building bridges by connecting families with housing, job training, healthcare and educational programs while celebrating our culture and heritage. Their work is a powerful reminder that when we invest in people, we build stronger, more resilient communities.

“As a proud Latino representative, I recognize how essential organizations like HHCCNI are in celebrating our heritage and building pathways for future generations. They not only celebrate our heritage but also open doors for families to thrive. It is an honor to present this proclamation and to stand alongside them as they continue shaping a brighter future for our community.”

The proclamation celebrates HHCCNI’s commitment to cultural pride, equality and service, honoring the group’s leadership in advancing opportunity and strengthening Northern Indiana.

Porter comments on 2% growth cap on Indiana’s Medicaid appropriation

Last week, the Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) announced its intention to place a 2% growth cap on the state general fund appropriation for Medicaid in 2028. The appropriation for Indiana’s Medicaid program would only grow by around $100 million each year, far below the program's $2.1 billion increase in the 2023 biennium. 

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

“No other state has a growth cap on its Medicaid appropriation. That’s because they’re not a viable solution. Uniform growth caps don't differentiate between necessary expansions and trimming the fat. 

“A cap on the growth of traditional Medicaid, not just the HIP expansion, goes back on Republicans' promises. They vowed to leave regular Medicaid alone when the One Big Ugly Bill reduced federal funding for HIP, which we leverage with hospital assessment fees and a portion of the cigarette tax.

“Limiting growth will directly reduce or outright eliminate services for those who need them the most: children, pregnant women, seniors and the disabled. We will have zero flexibility for additional enrollees, new services, to cover certain prescriptions or to match certain federal funds. Medical inflation is 3.3%, so we won’t even have the ability to cover the increased cost of our current program. 

“Cost-saving solutions should be discussed. But a growth cap can’t fix the real factors behind Medicaid’s expansion. There’s a greater need for affordable health care since our aging population is swelling, the number of households in poverty is growing and Hoosiers' overall health is poor.  

“Investments in public health would truly lower our Medicaid appropriation, but we slashed funding for that by $145 million. A growth cap on traditional Medicaid will have serious consequences for our families, especially when combined with the One Big Ugly Bill.”

OP-ED: Indiana Needs Solutions, Not Distractions

Title: Indiana Needs Solutions, Not Distractions

By: Rep. Alex Burton (D-Evansville)

Word Count: 370

As culture wars continue to dominate politics, sound policy is taking a back seat. We’ve spent more time ushering in divisive rhetoric and stoking fears than positioning society to produce students ready to learn, responsible graduates prepared to enter the workforce, safeguarding citizens from rising costs and inflation, and ensuring the next generation of Hoosiers has a better state to call home.

At this moment, we must address rising energy costs, health care, housing, infrastructure and child care. Without focusing on these integral issues, we’re too easily distracted by trending topics on social media and the constant deluge of global stories that prevent us from focusing on our responsibility to ensure we have strong institutions that are funded and resourced to serve our communities. Building these community pillars allow the state to continue tackling the issues that affect Hoosiers’ lives. Our divisiveness will only lead us down a more dangerous path.

While many are distracted by the idea of a special session and the looming threat of redistricting, my focus remains on understanding the issues facing Indiana and solving them reasonably. I share the concern about how these temporary measures could impact our state, but I refuse to let them become my sole focus. There must be an emphasis on why these short-term moves are unnecessary and costly for Indiana - let alone for Southwest Indiana, where families and communities already shoulder more than their fair share of challenges. Without a clear goal to position our state as a growing place full of opportunity that is driven by our cost of living, health care systems, infrastructure, education and overall quality of life, we fail in our duties as elected officials to look out for the best interest of Indiana.

Working for the people, by the people is a privilege and an honor. In these tumultuous times, I encourage reflection and compassion when vitriol and hate are often spewed without a second thought. A divided democracy does not lift any one person up. Rather, it perpetuates the cycle of violence, poverty and disproportionate discrimination. Indiana's foundation is centered on the belief that tomorrow can be a better day and that change is around the corner, but only if we do so together.

Ford and Garcia Wilburn release statement on denial of vote centers in Hamilton County

State Senator J.D. Ford (D-Carmel) and State Rep. Victoria Garcia Wilburn (D-Fishers) issued the following joint statement after the Hamilton County Election Board failed to reach the unanimous vote needed to move to countywide vote centers for future elections:  

"We are disappointed with the result of yesterday's Hamilton County Election Board meeting, which struck down the possibility for Vote Centers in Hamilton County despite the measure being approved unanimously by both the Hamilton County Commissioners and County Council and receiving widespread public support. 

"Hamilton County families are busy people. From driving kids to soccer or band practice to commuting to work, it can be difficult for families to find the time to make it to their assigned polling place to cast their vote on Election Day, even though they know how important it is to be civically engaged.

“During the last primary election, Indiana ranked 50th in the nation for voter turnout. By advancing vote centers, Hamilton County would have been rolling out a proven method to make voting more accessible for all of those families who call Hamilton County home. 

"These are not new. Sixty-seven out of Indiana's 92 counties have adopted vote centers, and there is ongoing discussion to implement them statewide. 

"Furthermore, this move would have saved Hamilton County money in a time when our local governments are having to tighten their belts.  

"By allowing people to vote at any voting center in the county, Hamilton County would have reduced the number of needed polling centers from 235 to 57, reducing spending by thousands of dollars each election. Hamilton County is on the cutting edge of so many governmental reforms and programs, and we take pride in that fact. That's why it's disappointing to us that our community won’t benefit from this model that makes it easier for working families to make their voices heard during the 2026 elections. 

"We remain focused on finding ways to ensure secure, safe and free elections while also finding paths to increase turnout and accessibility." 

Porter criticizes use of state funds for the “Speedwy Slammer”

Today, Sept. 17, the State Budget Committee (SBC) allocated close to $15.8 million for the preparation of the so-called “Speedway Slammer.” The state will cover the cost with the expectation of reimbursement, but reimbursement is contingent on the availability of federal funds. Indiana will receive a per diem rate of $291 per person for 60 days from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which the Indiana Department of Corrections (IDOC) expects will cover its entire request. It’s currently unclear if the state will profit from the detention center or fall short of its expenditure. 

Last month, State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis) sent a letter to the IDOC questioning the cost of this partnership to Hoosier taxpayers. Porter made a motion to remove the appropriation from the agenda, but the motion failed.

“I feel like I’m stuck in the Twilight Zone,” Porter said. “Republicans continue to make baffling decisions that contradict reality. Indiana doesn't have money for this right now, and rebounding revenues and reimbursement don’t change that fact. We’re living in hard times, but you wouldn’t know it from the actions of the majority. 

“Our farmers face plummeting soybean sales from tariffs this harvest. Parents can’t afford pre-K and child care, and our state’s most vulnerable still sit on waitlists for health care services. But Indiana is going to cover the cost of a detention center. 

“That’s Republicans' financial priority. They couldn’t find the money to avoid cuts to social services, but they found the funds for this. Let’s not forget that DHS’s other facility, ‘Alligator Alcatraz,’ has been accused of inhumane conditions and the mistreatment of detainees. 

“None of this matters to them since Trump will continue to get whatever he wants from the Braun administration.” 

Bipartisan Leaders Beau Baird and Victoria Garcia Wilburn Condemn Murder of Charlie Kirk, Call for End to Political Violence

State Reps. Beau Baird (R-Greencastle) and Victoria Garcia Wilburn (D-Fishers), co-chairs of the Indiana Future Caucus, shared their united condemnation of the murder of activist and commentator Charlie Kirk on a college campus in Utah yesterday. The Indiana Future Caucus brings together bipartisan lawmakers 45 years of age and under.

The co-chairs released the following statement condemning the shooting and calling for civility:

“Political violence is never okay. Taking someone’s life is never an acceptable way to settle differences of opinion.

“Earlier this year, our bipartisan caucus spoke out against the tragic murder of a Democratic Minnesota state representative and her husband. Today, we unequivocally condemn the murder of Republican activist and commentator Charlie Kirk.

“As a nation, we must move beyond this horrifying trend of harming or killing those you disagree with and return to a culture of spirited debate and respect for different viewpoints. The Indiana Future Caucus represents the bright tomorrow we can create for Hoosiers — and political violence should not exist in that future.

“Our prayers are with Charlie’s wife Erika, his children, and all who loved him during this heartbreaking time.”

The Indiana Future Caucus connects Gen Z and millennial lawmakers committed to working across party lines to deliver results for their communities. Currently, 32 millennial lawmakers serve in the Indiana General Assembly.

A forthcoming release will share more details about the caucus’s recent leadership transition.

Pryor commends OUCC recommendation to deny AES hike

Today, Sept. 10, the Indiana Office of the Utility Consumer Counselor (OUCC) issued its recommendations for the pending rate request from AES. The pending request would increase customers' bills anywhere between $21 and $30 per month if approved. After over 6,700 public comments were filed, the OUCC recommended that the request be denied, the company's return on equity be lowered to 8.5% and monthly customer service fees be reduced by $5.75.  

State Rep. Cherrish Pryor (D-Indianapolis) issued the following statement:

“Thank you to the OUCC for standing with Hoosiers who cannot afford higher utility bills.  Hoosier families should not have to choose between keeping their lights on and other needs. This is evidence of the power of the people and the importance of community. Our collective voice made an impact with thousands of Hoosiers standing up for their neighbors. On Aug. 25, I stood with my community and testified against these rate hikes, and I'm thankful for the OUCC for listening to what Hoosiers had to say.

“AES customers have watched their bills skyrocket over the past several years with little to show for it. Services have not improved, but the company’s investors continue to see their return on equity rise. AES has an ROE of 9.9%, the highest of any electric utility in the state, and its request would increase that number to 10.7%. Hoosiers should not be drowning in monthly costs to line the pockets of global investors. 

“I fully support the recommendations from the OUCC. This sends a clear message that the time for profit over people shouldn't rule the day.  Our voice was heard by OUCC, but ratepayers must keep pressure on the IURC to deny AES rate hike as well.” 

 The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission will hold an evidentiary hearing on Nov. 3, 2025. A final decision from the Commission is expected by the spring of 2026. 

Porter: ‘Share for the good of the people’

On Tuesday, Aug. 26, around 50 Republican members of the Indiana General Assembly visited the White House. Legislators discussed a wide range of policy topics, including Medicaid and Medicare, education, immigration and redistricting. Republican leadership attended a private meeting with President Trump in the Oval Office. 

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

“Welcome back to Indiana. Several of you publicly mentioned that the purpose of your trip was to discuss policy, not redistricting. If so, share the information with your colleagues. Knowing the plans of the president will help us make the informed decisions that Hoosiers deserve.

“Maybe you can answer the questions I have with your insider knowledge. Any details on the fiscal plan for the so-called 'Speedway Slammer'? Are we opening a facility even though ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ has been under fire for its harsh conditions? 

“Did the administration promise not to play with funding for K-12 education? Will there be federal cuts to special education and disadvantaged student funding? Should Hoosiers expect to see the National Guard deployed in their cities? What should people do when their monthly payments skyrocket from the expiration of credits on the ACA exchange? 

“What about the impacts of the One Big Ugly Bill? What should Hoosiers do when Indiana loses revenue from Trump’s policies? Will they mess with funding for Medicare and will our seniors be affected? What are we going to do for our families who can’t afford child care? 

“As you can see, Hoosiers and I have a lot of questions that remain unanswered. Please share what you learned at the White House for the benefit of the people.” 

Porter stands with students in the fight against gun violence

Today, Sept. 5, State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis) joined hundreds of high school students as they gathered at the Statehouse to demand gun reform legislation. This rally was part of a national walkout organized by Students Demand Action after a school shooting in Minnesota last week resulted in the tragic death of two children and injured 18 others. Firearms are the leading cause of death for people under the age of 17. 

“Today, I had the honor of participating in a rally against gun violence with students from across Indianapolis, including Shortridge, Brebeuf and North Central High Schools,” Porter said. “I am proud of this generation for their spirit and tenacity. They continue to show up and fight for a better world. Even though they’re sick and tired of deadbeat policy makers who fail them, every single time.

“When Columbine happened, they said, ‘never again.’ When Sandy Hook happened, they said, ‘never again.’ When Parkland, Virginia Tech and Uvalde happened, they said, ‘never again.’ But this has continued to happen again and again and again. 

“Our children fear for their lives while they sit in our schools. Young parents are sending their children to school with clear backpacks, and in some cases, even bulletproof vests. They have more active shooter drills than tornado drills. I cannot fathom what it’s like to grow up and see that someone your age was shot and killed in school on social media. 

“It’s past time for common-sense gun laws that protect our communities, to protect our kids. We are called not to love with our words, but through action and truth. Follow your promises with tangible actions.” 

DeLaney joins students in push for gun reform

Today, Sept. 5, State Rep. Ed DeLaney (D-Indianapolis) joined hundreds of high school students as they gathered at the Statehouse to demand gun reform legislation. This rally was part of a national walkout organized by Students Demand Action after a school shooting in Minnesota last week resulted in the tragic death of two children and injured 18 others. Firearms are the leading cause of death for people under the age of 17. 

“Today, hundreds of students from around our city showed up to the Statehouse to hold the adults accountable. Our young people proved that they will not be ignored. The fight against gun violence is deeply personal, and they are demanding a change from their lawmakers. I am proud of their commitment to protecting their lives.

“Students should be in class learning today, not fighting for their lives. How are students supposed to focus on their algebra test while they are flinching at every loud noise that comes from the hallway and thinking that their school will be the next headline?

“Many of the students I spoke to today were asking a question that I would like the answer to as well: How many more children have to die for action to be taken? The fact of the matter is that guns are far too accessible. Indiana’s virtually nonexistent gun laws open the door for a tragedy along the lines of what happened in Minneapolis, or Parkland, or Uvalde, or Sandy Hook, or Columbine or the other communities that have been ravaged by school shootings. We shouldn’t have to wait for an atrocity to strike in our home state to listen to the pleas of our students and pass common-sense gun safety legislation.”

Hamilton condemns child care voucher cuts, points to misplaced priorities

Today, the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) announced via press release that Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher reimbursement rates will be cut anywhere from 10 to 35%, depending on age range.

The reimbursement cuts are as follows:

• Infants (0–12 months): 10% decrease

• Toddlers (13–36 months): 10% decrease

• Preschoolers (3–5 years): 15% decrease

• School-Age Children (K–12): 35% decrease

In the press release, the Braun administration characterizes the cuts as an inevitable outcome of the Holcomb administration's choice to put temporary COVID-relief dollars toward CCDF funding. However, Gov. Braun and Statehouse Republicans still found the funds to create a universal private school voucher program and cut taxes during this year's budget session – both choices that will not benefit the budgets of working families who rely on child care vouchers.

House Democratic Caucus Chair Carey Hamilton (D-Indianapolis) released the following statement condemning the provider cuts:

"While Gov. Braun and the Republican supermajority provide private school vouchers to billionaires, they have now put working Hoosier families in the impossible situation of deciding whether to have a job or stay at home and take care of the kids. I reject the Braun administration's claim that they had to do this. They did not. There was no requirement to blow a $200 million hole in our biennial budget this year by opening up private school vouchers to the wealthy. This amount would nearly cover the projected deficit of the child care voucher program, but Statehouse Republicans chose to prioritize the wealthy over working-class families.

"It's simple market logic. You reduce the amount of funding the state is paying to child care providers to serve low-income working families, and those providers are either going to close or stop offering their services to those families. Combined with cuts to pre-K voucher reimbursement rates from earlier this year, families with young children are going to be hit incredibly hard.

"I am especially disappointed by the path this will set our state's child care and early education system on. In recent years, we've been increasing reimbursement rates, but now, we're going in reverse. Modern workforce infrastructure, which I thought so-called pro-business Republicans agreed with me was necessary, requires affordable child care so that families are incentivized to have children and both parents can have full-time jobs, if they so desire. This is short sighted and will hurt kids, families and the long-term economic prospects of our state."

Hamilton thanks Braun for concern for utility ratepayers, calls on general assembly to follow suit

Today, Gov. Mike Braun called upon the Office of the Utility Consumer Counselor to “evaluate utilities’ profits and find cost-saving measures to ease the financial burden on Hoosiers,” per a news release from his office. He also announced that he appointed a new Office of the Utility Consumer Counselor commissioner.  

Amid pending rate hike requests from Indiana utility companies such as AES, Hoosier consumers have been hit with record-high utility bills this summer, up 17.5% on average. 

House Democratic Caucus Chair Carey Hamilton (D-Indianapolis), a member of the House Committee on Utilities, Energy and Telecommunications, released the following statement reacting to the announcement:  

“I appreciate Gov. Braun’s stated commitment to lowering utility costs for consumers and share that desire with him. I hope he will join me in calling upon House Republicans to support efforts from House Democrats to lower utility bills – which they have resoundingly rejected this legislative session.

“Changing the consumer ratepayer advocate commissioner does little to change the fact that the legal deck is stacked against Indiana utility consumers. Thanks to a slew of new laws championed by the Republican supermajority, utility companies are still allowed to pass on the cost of expensive experimental projects to consumers, and data centers are exempt from paying sales tax.”  

This year alone, House Democrats stood up for utility consumers by forcing House Republicans to reject measures that would objectively lower utility bills via second-reading amendment votes:  

• Prevent utility companies from passing on the development costs of small modular reactors to consumers; 

• Prevent utility companies from charging reconnection fees for the first two reconnections; and 

• Create a one-year moratorium on rate hikes for electricity, natural gas, water or wastewater. 

“I hope that my House Republican colleagues will join us in advocating for consumers over utility company profits in the future, especially as consumers begin to understand that AI companies are passing on the cost of doing business to everyday families,” Hamilton concluded.