Rep. Taylor’s legislative agenda includes focus on meeting needs
INDIANAPOLIS – In his first session, State Representative Joe Taylor (D-South Bend) will focus on legislation aimed at redefining school discipline guidelines, providing reforms in distribution of food stamps, and providing more clarity in understanding the costs of prescription drugs.
“I believe we need to take a more comprehensive look at the way we handle discipline in our schools,” Taylor said. “While I want to be sure that we ensure that student behavior improves, I also want to help create an environment that helps identify their problems and provides solutions that can help them continue their education.”
Under the provisions of House Bill 1152, schools will be required to rework their disciplinary policies. Zero tolerance policies will be abolished and schools will be asked to establish principles for positive discipline and clear limits for referring students to law enforcement that ensure the protection of the health and safety of other students and school officials.
In addition, a student who is at least 16 years old who has been expelled from school will be required to attend certain alternative education programs if he or she wishes to re-enroll in school.
“I don’t just want to create a new discipline policy, I also want to provide the students with resources and training so they stay on the right path and earn their GED,” said Taylor.
He is also introducing a bill that will loosen some of the requirements associated with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
Federal regulations allow states to opt out of provisions that deny SNAP benefits to people with felony drug convictions. Indiana has eased some of its regulations in this area, but has not fully opted out of these provisions by allowing offenders participating in re-entry courts, evidence-based mental health and addiction forensic treatment services programs to qualify for SNAP.
Taylor’s proposal would remove these requirements, enabling individuals convicted of a drug offense to be eligible to participate in SNAP.
“I believe that everyone has a right to receiving benefits, as long as they have paid their debt to society,” said Taylor.
A third proposal is designed to get a better handle on the cost of prescription drugs under the Medicaid program.
The bill requires the Office of the Secretary of the Family and Social Services Administration to identify any prescription drug or course of treatment offered through Medicaid that costs at least $10,000.
“We all agree that the cost of many of these drugs are far beyond the financial ability of many people to pay for them,” Taylor said. “What we are seeking is greater transparency from the drug manufacturers, and give the public a better idea of the potential costs that they might be facing.”
Taylor also will play a key role in developing working policies that impact working Hoosiers through his service as the ranking Democrat on the House Employment, Labor and Pensions Committee.
His background as an assembler at A.M. General, a labor intensive job, as well as serving as president at UAW-Local 5 (International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America) and County CAP Chairman makes him exceptionally qualified for his new position.
“I am honored and excited to bring my experience and knowledge to this committee and am looking forward to putting forth bills that will help my community,” Taylor said.