Pence set to sign bill for regional development program

A new state grant program aimed at encouraging Indiana counties and cities to collaborate on regional development projects is set to be signed into law by Gov. Mike Pence.

The governor is scheduled to sign the Regional Cities program bill during a meeting Wednesday afternoon of the Indiana Economic Development Corp. board.

Legislators included $84 million for the program over the next two years in the new state budget. Money for the initiative will come from a new state tax amnesty program allowing people and businesses who owe back taxes before 2013 to pay their bills without penalties.

Some lawmakers hesitated to approve the Regional Cities program, saying its details weren't explained well.

Pence says the program will encourage long-term planning by regional groups.