Porter: ‘Indiana is entering a K economy’

On Friday, the state released its monthly revenue report. April revenue was $263.6 million above the estimate, reaching $425.7 million above forecast for FY 2026. 

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

“Indiana’s economy is booming. We’re up about half a billion dollars with two months left in the fiscal year. At this rate, especially with reversions in closeout, our surplus could potentially exceed $5 billion. 

“But Hoosiers aren’t doing well. We’re entering a K economy: the state and the wealthiest fortunes are trending up, while the 99% is experiencing a sharp decline. The number of Indiana households in poverty is rising.

“Suspending both gas taxes is a step towards assistance, but we need to do more. We should look into income tax rebates, actual property tax relief and additional support for childcare providers still struggling with reimbursement rate cuts.  

“What’s the point of hoarding tax dollars while Hoosiers struggle? This isn’t the government's money. It’s the people’s.”

GiaQuinta glad for gas tax suspension, calls for resolution of Iran conflict driving high prices

Last week, gas hit $4.99 per gallon across Indiana. Today, Gov. Mike Braun announced that Indiana's sales tax and excise tax on gasoline – totaling $0.59 per gallon – will be suspended for 30 days, following April's suspension of the sales tax alone.

House Democratic Leader Phil GiaQuinta (D-Fort Wayne) released the following statement in response:

"I am grateful that Hoosiers will get relief at the pump for another 30 days. Rep. Gregory W. Porter called for suspending both the sales tax and excise tax on gasoline last month, and House Democrats are glad Gov. Braun has now taken that step. However, our governor can also lobby his allies in D.C. to ease prices at the pump.

"Gas was affordable until the president chose to escalate in Iran with no clear strategy, no defined goals and no exit plan. That choice disrupted global energy markets, and Hoosiers are paying for it every time they fill up. Suspending both gas taxes gives Hoosiers $0.59 back per gallon, but the president's policy chaos is costing them far more than that. We're putting a band-aid on a wound the White House created.

"It's time for Gov. Braun and Indiana's congressional Republicans to push for an end to the war in Iran. This is the single most effective action they could take today to bring down prices for Hoosiers in the long term, not just this month."

House Democrats mourn the loss of retired Rep. Chet Dobis

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Chet Dobis, a longtime Democratic state representative from Merrillville, passed away May 2 at the age of 83. First elected in 1970, Dobis served as Speaker Pro Tempore for 18 years under three different House speakers. He served for 42 years, retiring in 2012.

Throughout his time in the legislature, Dobis passed many bills enhancing public safety,  public finance reform and fought for his community in Northwest Indiana.

House Democratic Caucus Leader Phil GiaQuinta (D-Fort Wayne), who served in the House with Dobis for six years, issued the following statement:

"Rep. Dobis ran a tight ship when he was called to preside over the House. He was not only the gold standard as how to run the House floor proceedings, but he served as a mentor for a lot of new legislators and staff members. Always willing to work across the aisle, Chet championed legislation that continues to have a positive impact on Indiana today.

"The House Democratic Caucus extends our condolences and prayers to his wife, Darlene, and his family and friends. Rep. Dobis has left behind a legacy of leadership and stewardship that we should all strive for in the Statehouse and in our local communities."

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Novak celebrates ceremonial signing of HEA 1048, boosting support for volunteer firefighters

Yesterday, April 29, State Rep. Randy Novak (D-Michigan City) joined Gov. Mike Braun, firefighters and key stakeholders for the ceremonial signing of House Enrolled Act 1048 — legislation long overdue in recognizing the dedicated men and women who volunteer each day to protect Indiana communities.

HEA 1048 increases the yearly minimum clothing and vehicle allowance for volunteer fire department members from $100 to $250 each, helping offset the cost of essential out-of-pocket expenses incurred in service.

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Novak released the following statement:

"Yesterday was a great day for Indiana's volunteer firefighters, and it's been a long time coming. Standing here with the very people who put on the gear and run toward danger — that's what this is all about. This increase may seem modest, but it sends the message that Indiana stands behind the over 13,000 citizens who volunteer to keep our communities safe.

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"I'm grateful to have this legislation signed into law, and to everyone who testified, reached out, and shared their stories along the way. Your voices moved this across the finish line. To my House co-authors, Reps. Chuck Moseley, Steve Bartels, and Jim Pressel, and our Senate Sponsors, thank you for your partnership.

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"There is more work to be done to support all of our first responders, and I remain committed to continuing that effort. Today, we celebrate,  and tomorrow, we keep moving forward."

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HEA 1048 passed with full bipartisan support during the 2026 legislative session.

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GiaQuinta issues statement on SCOTUS Voting Rights Act decision

Today, the U.S. Supreme Court voted 6-3 to require Louisiana to redraw its congressional maps to undo efforts to give Black voters equal representation following the 2020 census. The most recent map gave Louisiana, where Black residents represent roughly 33% of the state's population, two majority-Black districts. A Republican-backed lawsuit argued that the maps created districts based on race, which violates the 14th Amendment. The court ultimately agreed, furthering diluting Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Indiana House Democratic Leader Phil GiaQuinta (D-Fort Wayne) issued the following statement on behalf of House Democrats:

"Hoosiers and Americans care deeply about fair play and fair representation.

"Last fall, Indiana had a months-long battle over Gov. Braun and House Republicans' attempt to redraw the compact congressional district representing most of Indianapolis, a district with a 31% Black population and 16% Hispanic population. Their proposed map would have split the city into four districts, each stretching from dense urban Indianapolis to rural counties in completely different parts of the state. The map also carved up urban Lake County and other major cities throughout the state, and Hoosiers resoundingly rejected it. They understood that spreading representation across vastly different communities means everyone loses.

"Today's Supreme Court decision will drown out minority voices by allowing partisan maps that carve up majority-Black districts for pure political gain and rigging elections before they even happen. This ruling violates the spirit of the Voting Rights Act. People need to trust that their representatives are truly accountable to them, and map rigging destroys that trust. Indiana House Democrats will keep fighting for fair maps that reflect our communities, not maps drawn to protect one political party."

IBLC decries Supreme Court decision gutting Voting Rights Act

Today, members of the U.S. Supreme Court voted 6-3 to require Louisiana to redraw its congressional maps to undo efforts to give Black voters equal representation following the 2020 census. The most recent map gave Louisiana– where Black residents represent roughly 33% of the state's population – two majority-Black districts. A Trump-backed lawsuit argued that the maps created districts based on race, which the group argued was a violation of the 14th Amendment. The court ultimately agreed, a decision that further guts the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

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

"The basis of the Voting Rights Act was to ensure that African Americans had both equal access to the polls and equal representation in governmental bodies. Today's decision is yet another blow in a decades-long attack on the Voting Rights Act and on minority Americans' ability to have a voice in their communities and national government.

"This decision will not just impact Louisiana. Throughout the country, Louisiana v. Callais will be used to silence minority voices and uphold the violent white supremacy that has marred our nation from its inception.

"This was an opportunity for the Supreme Court to affirm every American's right to be fairly represented in their government. Instead, they chose to take our country back decades. The harm that this decision will cause cannot be overstated. This is a sad day for our democracy, but the IBLC is committed to continuing our work to advocate for fair maps that give everyone a voice."

Porter comments on Attendant Care audit

Recently, the Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) announced an audit of the Attendant Care program, putting critical support for developmentally disabled children and adults at risk. 

State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis) issued the following statement on the audit:

“This audit is evidence that Republicans don’t know what they’re doing. They’re in charge. They overpaid providers. But somehow the fault lies with the Attendant Care program. Now the FSSA is on this seek and destroy mission.

“For two years, the FSSA has attacked the Attendant Care program. But the program is a genuine win-win. Indiana’s most vulnerable residents can remain in their homes and receive care from their loved ones, rather than being forced into high-cost facilities. This approach is not only more compassionate. It’s significantly more cost-effective for the state. But the FSSA continues to put this vital lifeline at risk. 

“Threatening providers with $200 million in clawbacks, while simultaneously requiring pre-approval of billings before payment is issued, risks driving these providers out of business. The result won’t be a more efficient, better system. It will be families left without care or options. 

“I reject this approach to ‘blame all for the actions of the few.’ If fraud exists, pursue those bad actors. But we cannot slash and burn an entire program that vulnerable people depend upon. 

“The correct course of action is a comprehensive performance audit of the Attendant Care program. We don’t need a politically motivated audit that seeks a predetermined outcome. Indiana should pursue bad actors, but we can’t lose sight of those lives that depend on these life-saving services.”

GiaQuinta and Miller issue statement on proposed quarry project

House Democratic Leader Phil GiaQuinta (D-Fort Wayne) and State Rep. Kyle Miller (D-Fort Wayne) issued a joint statement on the proposed limestone quarry project in Allen County:

"We have heard from many constituents across Allen County opposed to the proposed limestone quarry, and we want them to know their voices matter. We join them in opposition to the proposed development.

"We support economic development that creates jobs and strengthens our region. But development must be compatible with the communities it surrounds. This proposal raises legitimate questions about air quality, groundwater, wetland preservation, and the long-term character of a neighborhood that includes schools, a major health campus and thousands of families.

"We encourage all affected residents to attend the May 26 public hearing at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum and make their voices heard."

Burton celebrates ceremonial signing of HEA 1307

Today, April 22, State Rep. Alex Burton (D-Evansville) joined Gov. Mike Braun and other stakeholders for the ceremonial signing of House Enrolled Act 1307 – legislation requiring the Department of Child Services (DCS) Ombudsman’s Office to investigate complaints alleging that DCS failed to protect a child’s physical or mental health and safety.

The Ombudsman’s office was established to serve as an independent oversight agency over DCS. HEA 1307 strengthens that mandate by ensuring the office fulfills its oversight role when children’s well-being may be at risk – including children already in the DCS system.

Burton released the following statement on the ceremonial signing:

“This legislation was a direct result of families in Evansville coming to me with similar concerns – feeling unheard and unprotected by the very system meant to help them. With this law, families now have a stronger advocate in their corner and a clearer path to accountability within DCS. My aim is to cultivate Hoosier youth from birth through high school graduation, and this bill is just the start of what's to come.”

Errington presents ‘Distinguished Hoosier Award’ to Muncie non-profit leader Bibi Bahrami

On April 18, Bibi Bahrami, Founder and President of AWAKEN (Afghan Women’s and Kids’ Education and Necessities), was named a Distinguished Hoosier by Gov. Mike Braun. The award was presented by State Rep. Sue Errington (D-Muncie) at AWAKEN’s annual fundraising dinner in Muncie.

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The Distinguished Hoosier award – one of the highest honors that an Indiana citizen may receive – is given to “those who distinguish themselves by significant contributions to their communities, and whose qualities and actions endear them in the hearts and minds of Hoosiers.” Widely recognized as one of Muncie’s greatest humanitarians, Bahrami has helped change the lives of thousands of individuals and has fostered compassion and understanding between the people of Indiana and Afghanistan. 

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“Receiving the Distinguished Hoosier Award is a reflection of a shared journey and commitment,” Bahrami said. “I am deeply grateful to people across Indiana who believe in our mission. I share this recognition with everyone who has stood beside me in serving our communities, especially the AWAKEN board members who have worked alongside me for many years, extending hope to women and children in need in Afghanistan.”

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Bahrami, who came to Indiana in 1986 as a refugee from Afghanistan, founded AWAKEN in 2002 with a group of citizens in the greater Muncie/Yorktown area. Its core mission was, and remains, to help Afghan women, children and families in the Behsood District – a rural area near Jalalabad, Afghanistan – to become healthy, literate and self-sufficient. The organization focuses its work on education, vocational training for women and healthcare.

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In 2021, when the Taliban invaded Kabul and U.S. troops withdrew, Bahrami organized a committee of local citizens to help Afghan refugees who settled in Delaware County. This AWAKEN initiative helped approximately three dozen families find housing, jobs, volunteer positions and other necessities for their new lives in the greater Muncie area.

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Bahrami’s many other contributions to the community include her role as the only woman ever to be elected President of the Islamic Center of Muncie, co-founding of an interfaith coalition, service on the boards of several Muncie not-for-profit organizations and contributions to projects undertaken by Ball State University students and researchers, often as a speaker or interviewee.

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In 2022, Bahrami was a key figure in the documentary film “Stranger at the Gate,” which was nominated for an Academy Award and nearly one dozen film festival awards. The film tells the story of an ex-Marine who planned to bomb the Islamic Center of Muncie but then abandoned his plans, because of the kindness extended to him by Bibi and her husband, Dr. Saber Bahrami.

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“I want to make my city and my state a light and example of hope for humanity,” Bahrami said. “I believe we all have an ethical responsibility to support our communities, to build greater understanding of one another. The Distinguished Hoosier award reflects the power of collective compassion and service to our shared humanity.”

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Errington, a board member of AWAKEN, stated, “Bibi Bahrami is the embodiment of community leadership. Bibi doesn't just talk about building community – she lives it, every single day. Her heart, her drive and her vision have made Muncie a better place for everyone. This award is well-deserved, and frankly, it's just the beginning of the recognition she has earned.”

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Visit awakeninc.org for more information about AWAKEN’s work.

Porter: ‘Braun should suspend the excise tax’

Earlier this month, Gov. Mike Braun announced a 30-day suspension of the 17.2-cent sales tax on gasoline, leaving the 36-cent excise tax in place. According to Braun, legislative action is needed to suspend the excise tax. However, an analysis by the Legislative Services Agency (LSA) found nothing in statutory law or case law to confirm that the governor lacks the authority to suspend excise tax without legislative agreement.

“I support the sales tax suspension, but Hoosiers need more than a couple of dollars,” State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis) said. “Prices have started to fall. But gas is expected to stay above $3 a gallon for the rest of the year. Prices go up like a rocket and come down like a feather. 

“Braun should suspend the excise tax. There’s nothing in the Indiana code or the constitution stopping him, only precedent. Suspending the excise and sales tax would save 53.2 cents a gallon. If you have a 16-gallon tank, that’s around $9 saved. 

“Indiana can afford this tax break, especially with the $700 million the governor will rake in with higher tolls. The ball is in the governor’s court.”

Jackson celebrates Gary Tin Mill restart

State Rep. Carolyn B. Jackson (D-Hammond) today welcomed the announcement by U.S. Steel that the company plans to restart the Gary Tin Mill at Gary Works, a move expected to create approximately 225 jobs for Northwest Indiana workers.

"This is exactly the kind of investment our community deserves," Jackson said. "These good-paying jobs at Gary Works means 225 more families in Northwest Indiana with the stability and security they need. I'm proud to see Gary continue to be a hub for American manufacturing, and I'll keep fighting at the Statehouse to make sure our workers and our Region get every opportunity to thrive."

The restart is expected in early 2027.