Campbell and Klinker discuss water rights, IEDC with members of the community to start the 2025 session

Today, Jan. 8, State Rep. Chris Campbell (D-West Lafayette) and State Rep. Sheila Klinker (D-Lafayette) met with residents of Tippecanoe County to discuss the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) and its LEAP Project. Both legislators intend to push for water protections, the creation of a statewide water plan and increased IEDC oversight in the 2025 session. 

“I was extremely frustrated last year when the majority chose to ignore our water legislation,” Campbell said. “Our community deserves to be heard, and I can unequivocally say most people are against using the Wabash River. People in West Lafayette feel like the government is trampling them to get what they want. In 2025, my goal is to protect our aquifer by creating a statewide water plan. We’re still at square one regarding water regulation and protection. We don’t have an agency that oversees our water supply, and we have no laws for water ownership. It’s time for the legislature to take action for our community.” 

In August 2024, Tippecanoe County voted to extend its moratorium on high-volume water exports and radial collector wells. The moratorium lasts until Sept. 3, 2025, giving state lawmakers additional time to craft and pass legislation this session. The Indiana Finance Authority (IFA) also released its regional water study for North Central Indiana earlier this month. 

“This is one of the many times in my tenure as a representative that the community has united across party lines on an issue,” Klinker said. “I’ve heard from many who do not want a pipeline, and they’re demanding a bill on this issue. They’re worried about having enough water for our community in the future. We must have ample third-party studies, and we must listen to the desires of the people. Local leadership has done an excellent job with this issue, and I am dedicated to carrying their efforts to the Statehouse. Thank you to the members of the community who shared their thoughts with me today.”