Pryor opposes supermajority bills to raise Marion County taxes, deprive Indianapolis of local government tools

Today, Jan. 30, the House of Representatives passed House Bills 1121 and 1199. 

HB 1199 will repeal the Mile Square economic enhancement district (EED) law, which was adopted by the Indianapolis City-County Council after a provision to allow it passed in the 2023 Republican-passed state budget. The funding tool would provide the city with an additional $5.5 million a year for public safety and beautification enhancements. 

While HB 1121 will increase income taxes on all Marion County residents as a so-called compromise to pay for Mile Square improvements. 

State Rep. Cherrish Pryor (D-Indianapolis) released the following statement regarding the passage of the bills: 

“House Bill 1199 sets a dangerous precedent by repealing something our Indianapolis City-County Council, downtown businesses and residents overwhelmingly support. The EED allows property owners, both businesses owners and individuals, the power to invest in their surroundings and support a thriving downtown. Mile Square is facing a unique set of challenges including public safety concerns and cleanliness. EED will provide funding for the services necessary to promote a safe, clean and beloved downtown.  

“If the (EED) is repealed, a so-called 'compromise' under House Bill 1121 would pass the cost of elevating downtown onto the entirety of Marion County workers only. While businesses would benefit and pay nothing forcing workers to foot the bill.  We shouldn’t be taxing an area for services that they won’t directly benefit from. Instead, let's allow those in the Mile Square invest in their communities, and let’s support so it can continue to be the thriving center of Indianapolis.”