Hamilton offers amendment to restore access to reproductive health care

Today, State Rep. Carey Hamilton (D-Indianapolis) offered an amendment to Senate Joint Resolution 21 that would codify the protections of Roe v. Wade in the United States Constitution. The amendment failed by a vote of 26-56. 

Hamilton released the following statement upon the defeat of the amendment: 

“Today, I offered an amendment to restore comprehensive reproductive health care for women and girls. Two and a half years after Indiana passed a near-total abortion ban, we now know that this is hurting women, families and our state. We also know that 64% of Hoosiers support access to abortion. I offered this amendment on behalf of the majority of the state that supports this measure, and for all of the Hoosiers who fear for their own health or that of their daughters, granddaughters or any woman in their life. 

“I have been in contact with a mother from Hamilton County who recently faced the consequences of Indiana’s abortion ban. When she was told that her baby had a fatal fetal anomaly and would die minutes after being brought into the world, she, her husband, and her three sons were devastated. While having to come to terms with the fact that she would have to end a pregnancy that she desperately wanted, she had to fill out 13 pages of legal paperwork required by the state. 

“To have this medically necessary procedure and allow her baby peace, she had to provide her name, birthday, social security number, age, gender, race, address, level of education, pregnancy history, marital status, religion, cause of death, and occupation. Her husband only had to provide his name. She will be on a registry for the rest of her life. She had to sign a paper stating if this was found ‘unnecessary’ she would be charged with a felony. Not her husband.

“This ban is not family friendly. It is hurting Hoosiers. It is hurting our economy. It is hurting the future of our state. I will continue to do everything in my power to restore access to life-saving health care and privacy to Hoosier women and girls.” 

House Democrats in Election Committee stand against disenfranchisement of college students, partisan school board races

Today, March 12, the House Committee on Elections and Apportionment heard two controversial bills. Senate Bill 10 eliminates the ability of college students to use their official student ID to register to vote in Indiana. Senate Bill 287 would require school board candidates to declare their political party as a Democrat or Republican to be on the ballot.

Ranking Minority Member Rep. Carolyn Jackson (D-Hammond), Rep. Pat Boy (D-Michigan City), Rep. Sue Errington (D-Muncie) and Rep. Cherrish Pryor (D-Indianapolis), who serve on the House Election Committee, released the following statement on hearing testimony on Senate Bill 10:

“Today, people from across the state came to testify against Senate Bill 10 and the disenfranchisement of college students. Our institutions are trusted to determine if a student is an Indiana resident when they decide to charge them in-state or out-of-state tuition. Why are we suddenly deeming them an unreliable source for verifying residence? 

“Indiana is one of the worst states when it comes to voter turnout. On both sides of the aisle, we agree that is it important to get our young people engaged in our democracy. Adding an additional barrier will inherently discourage college students from participating in elections that will directly impact them.” 

Jackson, Boy, Errington and Pryor released the following statement on the passage of Senate Bill 287 out of committee by a vote of 8 to 5:

“This bill takes the focus of school boards off of educating our students and onto politics. The fundamental purpose of a school board is to keep the schools running smoothly, oversee transportation, building maintenance and teacher retention. Those issues are not political. Forcing these positions to be affiliated with a party will only sow discourse and slow down the process of decision-making. 

“We want qualified, dedicated candidates to step up and run because they are called to serve the community. Making school board elections partisan would deter anyone working for the federal government or an agency that receives federal funding from running to avoid violating the Hatch Act. 

“There are many actions we can take to improve our schools. Inserting politics into school board elections is not one of them. Let’s focus on the real issues for our kids and bolster teacher retention, academic outcomes, and graduation rates."  

Bauer: ‘Environmental policy should be driven by science, not political pandering’

Today, Mar. 12, Gov. Mike Braun signed Executive Orders 25-37 and 25-38 on environmental policy in Indiana.

State Rep. Maureen Bauer (D-South Bend) released the following statement on the EO(s):

“As the former state lead of the National Caucus of Environmental Legislators (NCEL) and an advocate for environmental protections that safeguard the health of the public we serve, I express grave concern with Gov. Braun's executive orders. These directives aim to limit and undermine the ability of the Indiana General Assembly to enact laws and regulations that best serve our state and its residents.

“Deferring Indiana's clean water and air regulations to Washington D.C. contradicts the principles once championed by the state's Republican leadership. Before Gov. Braun became a D.C. politician, he served in the state legislature, where he understood that we - not Washington, D.C. - know what is best for our communities.

“I would also remind Governor Braun that Indiana already has a 'no more stringent than' law, making EO 25-37 redundant. Meanwhile, HB 1037, which prevents local governments from enacting stronger stormwater management policies, is currently moving through the Indiana General Assembly, further limiting local rule. The opposition to 'environmental justice' is, in reality, resistance to righting the wrongs that have persisted due to weak environmental regulation – such as those that plagued LaSalle Park/Beck's Lake on the westside of South Bend. Known simply as 'The Lake,' this site in a predominantly Black neighborhood endured years of hazardous industrial dumping from the 1930s to the 1950s. Clean-up at this site did not begin until 2022, led by the City of South Bend and Honeywell International Inc., with critical support from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a Superfund site. 

“Transforming this former dumping ground – where children once swam and played – into a safe community space should not be mischaracterized as part of conservatives' fear of 'environmental justice.’ Ensuring that children have safe places to play, free from lead-contaminated soil, is the right thing to do and should not be a topic of political debate.

“We commend the federal government’s continued investment in South Bend’s Superfund sites. These efforts demonstrate a commitment to addressing long-standing environmental hazards that have disproportionately impacted vulnerable communities. Robust environmental regulations and federal funding are essential to remediating toxic waste sites and protecting public health. Weakening state regulations threatens to derail these vital initiatives, putting Hoosier families at even greater risk. Instead of rolling back protections, Indiana should work alongside federal agencies to expand cleanup efforts and ensure that all communities have access to clean air and water.

“Environmental policy should be driven by science, not political agendas or fear of doing what is right. Gov. Braun's actions today align with the Trump administration's repeated efforts to slash funding and cut jobs at the EPA and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Weakened federal protections disproportionately endanger communities already burdened by pollution while also jeopardizing key industries, such as agriculture and tourism, sectors that are vital to Indiana's economy and workforce. Sustainable economic growth relies on responsible environmental stewardship, not reckless deregulation.

“I am proud to stand on the right side of history by supporting policies that prioritize the health and well-being of my community. Instead of enabling unchecked pollution and environmental deregulation, we must champion clean air, safe drinking water, and resilient infrastructure. Environmental policies should be strengthened – not gutted – if we are to protect Indiana’s future generations. Indiana House Democrats are ready to work with Gov. Braun on pragmatic solutions that enhance efficiency without compromising the health of our residents or the integrity of our natural resources.” 

Shackleford’s HB 1065 passes unanimously out of Senate Committee

Today, Mar. 12, State Rep. Robin Shackleford’s (D-Indianapolis) House Bill 1065 passed unanimously out the Senate Health and Provider Services Committee.  The bill proposes the creation of the Cancer Clinical Trial Participation Program, allowing independent third parties, such as patient groups, corporations, or government entities, to cover ancillary costs for patients taking part in clinical trials in Indiana.

Shackleford released the following statement on the bill’s passage:

"My family has experienced firsthand the devastating impact of cancer. My father, mother, and oldest brother all passed away from the disease in their early 50s. Among them, my mom fought the hardest, battling cancer for over five years and participating in a range of experimental treatments. Throughout this time, we repeatedly heard the urgent need for greater diversity in clinical trial participation, as well as the immense financial burdens that accompany it.

“Today, with the passage of HB 1065 out of Senate Committee and its advancement to the Senate floor, we are one step closer to securing tangible relief for the individuals and families navigating the difficult and costly process of participating in life-saving cancer clinical trials.

“For those fighting cancer, their focus should be entirely on their treatment and recovery - not the overwhelming financial strain that often accompanies the decision to join a clinical trial. By alleviating these financial burdens, this bill will allow participants to focus on what truly matters, their health and well-being, free from the added stress of unexpected costs.

“I am optimistic that, with the continued bipartisan support, we will pass this crucial legislation and make a lasting difference for those who need it most. Having lived through this experience, I can say without a doubt that the relief this bill offers is not just necessary - it’s vital."

Errington’s HB1297 passes unanimously out of Senate Committee

Today, March 11, State Rep. Sue Errington’s (D-Muncie) House Bill 1297 passed unanimously out of the Senate Homeland Security and Transportation Committee. The bill creates a voluntary Yellow Dot Motor Vehicle Medical Information Program, aimed at providing first responders with crucial medical information during automobile accidents. The program will include a yellow decal for the vehicle’s rear window and an envelope with medical details to be kept in the glove compartment.

Errington issued the following statement following the bill’s passage:

“The Yellow Dot Program is a life-saving initiative that ensures first responders can access vital medical information quickly, particularly when accident victims are unable to provide it themselves. This program is already in effect in 22 other states, providing added benefits for Hoosiers traveling out of state.

“I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support of Lt. Governor Beckwith, who has been a strong advocate for this bill and played a key role in its progression by offering his testimony before the committee.

“I also want to thank a Hoosier resident, Debby Holcombe, who came to testify at the Statehouse in support of the bill. Debby’s son, who has medically complex conditions, would benefit greatly from the Yellow Dot Program.

“And to our dedicated first responders who continue to serve as heroes in our communities, thank you for your service and sacrifice. While this program is primarily aimed at benefiting older residents, it is designed for individuals of all ages—both healthy and those with medical conditions.

“As HB 1297 moves forward to the Senate floor, I remain hopeful for continued bipartisan support to improve the lives of Hoosiers and better support the critical work of our first responders.”

Andrade celebrates INDOT Community Crossings Matching Grants to improve roads and bridges in District 12

Last week, the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) announced the recipients of the Spring 2025 Community Crossings Matching Grant Program. More than $200 million was awarded through the program and will go towards improving roads and bridges throughout the state.

Several communities in House District 12 represented by State Rep. Mike Andrade (D-Munster) received grants for Spring 2025. 

The matching grant winners and amounts include:

Munster - $1,500,000.00

Highland - $753,271.70

Griffith - $534,863.50

Schererville - $1,172,053.49

Andrade released the following statement celebrating the funding:

“I’m thrilled to share that House District 12 will receive approximately $4 million in state funding this year through the Community Crossings Matching Grant. Since day one in the Statehouse, I’ve been a strong advocate for prioritizing infrastructure improvements and holding our governments accountable for delivering essential services. This funding is a crucial step in maintaining the safety and reliability of our roads and bridges, helping to keep our communities secure and well-connected.”

Moseley celebrates INDOT Community Crossings Matching Grants to improve roads and bridges in District 10

INDIANAPOLIS – Last week, the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) announced the recipients of the Spring 2025 Community Crossings Matching Grant Program. More than $200 million was awarded through the program and will go towards improving roads and bridges throughout the state.

Several communities in House District 10 represented by State Rep. Chuck Moseley (D-Portage) received grants for Spring 2025. 

The matching grant winners and amounts include:

Porter County - $1,500,000.00

Portage - $1,500,000.00

Ogden Dunes - $259,693.12

Porter - $541,331.25

Moseley issued the following statement celebrating the funding awardees:

“I am thrilled to announce that House District 10 will receive more than $3 million in state funding this year through the Community Crossings Matching Grant. Throughout my time in the Statehouse, I have advocated for improving our infrastructure and ensuring our governments deliver on this basic service. Grants like these ensure our roads and bridges are in great shape and that our communities are safe and sound.”

Errington celebrates INDOT Community Crossings Matching Grants to improve roads and bridges in Delaware County

Today, March 6, the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) announced the recipients of the Spring 2025 Community Crossings Matching Grant Program. More than $200 million was awarded through the program and will go towards improving roads and bridges throughout the state.

Delaware County, with a portion represented by State Rep. Sue Errington (D-Muncie), received grants for Spring 2025.

The matching grant winners and amounts include:

Delaware County - $680,715.38

Errington released the following statement celebrating the funding:

“I am excited to announce that Delaware County will receive approximately $680,000 in state funding this year through the Community Crossings Matching Grant. Since the very first day I began serving in the Statehouse, my commitment has been clear - fighting for the resources and support our district deserves to strengthen our infrastructure and make sure our community thrives. This funding isn’t just about paving roads or repairing bridges, it’s about creating safer, more reliable connections for our families, our businesses, our college students and our future. It’s a major step forward in ensuring that District 34 remains a place where people feel safe, supported and connected to everything that matters.”

Boy celebrates INDOT Community Crossings Matching Grants to improve roads and bridges in District 9

Today, Mar. 6, the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) announced the recipients of the Spring 2025 Community Crossings Matching Grant Program. More than $200 million was awarded through the program and will go towards improving roads and bridges throughout the state.

Several communities in House District 9 represented by State Rep. Pat Boy  (D-Michigan City) received grants for Spring 2025. 

The matching grant winners and amounts include:

Porter County - $1,500,000.00

Michigan City - $1,500,000.00

Trail Creek - $751,278.06

Porter - $541,331.25

Town of Pines - $159,817.50

Michiana Shores - $324,985.01

Boy released the following statement celebrating the funding:

“I’m thrilled to share that House District 9 will receive approximately $4.7 million in state funding this year through the Community Crossings Matching Grant. From the moment I began serving in the Statehouse, I’ve worked tirelessly to secure the resources and support needed for infrastructure improvements, ensuring that our communities have the necessary tools to thrive and stay connected. This funding is a critical step in enhancing the safety and reliability of our roads and bridges, helping to keep our communities secure and connected.”

Dant Chesser celebrates road and bridge funding

House District 71 will receive almost $1.8 million through the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) Community Crossings Matching Grant Program to improve local roads and bridges. Clark County will receive nearly $324,000 and Jeffersonville will receive close to $1.5 million. 

State Rep. Wendy Dant Chesser (D-Jeffersonville) applauded the funding for our local communities: 

“Road improvements are vital not only to our quality of life, but also continuous maintenance and improvements in our infrastructure ensures we will continue to attract visitors, residents and investment in our community. I am excited that House District 71 will receive almost $1.8 million for much-needed road improvements. Better roads mean safer driving, and we all deserve to be safe on our daily commutes.”

The Community Crossings Matching Grant Program, announced today by Gov. Mike Braun and INDOT, awarded over $200 million statewide to support local infrastructure projects. The program is funded through Indiana’s local road and bridge matching fund, designed to assist counties, cities, and towns in maintaining and upgrading critical transportation networks.

“It’s the roads in our community that connect us to one another. We deserve quality public infrastructure that serves the need of our growing community and businesses. I’m focused on securing the dollars we need for our roads and continuing our track record of development.”  

Garcia Wilburn supports funding for Hamilton and Marion County roads

On Feb. 20, the Indiana House of Representatives passed House Bill 1461 on third reading. The bill will provide local governments with innovative fundraising tools for road maintenance. The bill also includes provisions that would allow Marion County to receive $50 million dollars for the upkeep of roads.

The bill is now being considered by the State Senate.

The Indiana Department of Transportation announced today (March 6) that several communities in House District 32 will receive Community Crossings Matching Grants for the spring of 2025. These funds can be used to build and improve local infrastructure projects, including roads and bridges.

The matching grant winners and amounts include these HD 32 communities:

• Carmel - $1,171,958.89

• Fishers - $1,500,000.00

• Hamilton County - $1,500,000.00

• Indianapolis - $1,500,000.00

• Noblesville $1,500,000.00

State Rep. Victoria Garcia Wilburn (D-Fishers) issued the following statement celebrating the funding awardees and the passage of HB 1461 out of the House:

"I want to congratulate Hamilton County and the cities of Carmel, Fishers, Indianapolis and Noblesville for working hard to fund our roads and bridges and seeking out this matching grant funding to do so. I know that this funding will be put to good use maintaining our current infrastructure and executing new projects where possible. I will continue to support infrastructure funding for our district's communities so we can continue growing and attracting families and businesses.

"I was also pleased to vote for HB 1461," Garcia Wilburn continued. "If signed into law, this bill would give Marion County the funding it needs to maintain its roads and give Hamilton County new, innovative tools to raise funds for road maintenance. This is vital given the fact that our roads are starting to show their age. I am grateful for my partnerships with our local mayors that also made this bill a joy to support. Finally, I am hopeful that this is a step in the right direction when it comes to fixing Indiana's broken road funding formula."

House Democrats in the Elections Committee stand against partisan school board race bill

Yesterday, March 5, Senate Bill 287 was heard in the House Elections and Apportionment Committee but did not receive a vote. The bill would require school board candidates to declare their party and run in partisan primaries in order to be on the ballot in the November general election as a Democrat or Republican.

Ranking Minority Member Rep. Carolyn Jackson (D-Hammond), Rep. Pat Boy (D-Michigan City), Rep. Sue Errington (D-Muncie) and Rep. Cherrish Pryor (D-Indianapolis), who serve on the House Election Committee, released the following statement on the bill:

“We believe this piece of legislation will severely damage Indiana public schools, by making school boards about politics and not our students. If this bill passes, we will see the same partisan arguments so prevalent in Washington, D.C. trickle down to our children’s schools. Issues like transportation, building maintenance and teacher retention have nothing to do with party affiliations and will slow down decision-making on our school boards. 

“The bill as written would make it necessary to run in a primary election and general election, when people step up to run simply because they want to serve their communities and provide a good educational system for students. The bill will also prevent anyone who works for the government or any other agency that receives federal funds or grants from running in a partisan election because of the Hatch Act. This will discourage many highly qualified individuals from serving our schools, and it would force many qualified school board members to resign.

“If we want to improve our schools, we should create legislation to increase our teacher retention, strengthen our graduation rate and ensure young Hoosiers receive the same educational opportunities as students across the nation. SB 287 will not help us further these goals, but will distract from the real obstacles we face in our education system. Taxpayers should let their representatives know they oppose this legislation and show them Hoosiers do not want political wars in our schools.”