Federal funds help libraries, schools provide off-campus internet access
The application period opens Tuesday for the Emergency Connectivity Fund, which will reimburse libraries and schools for the purchase of laptops, tablets and Wi-Fi hot spots.
Government & Economic Development
Articles
Fresh wave of rental help on way as eviction moratorium extended for ‘final’ time
Since IndyRent launched last July, it has provided $96.1 million in emergency rental assistance to help thousands of residents stay housed in the midst of the pandemic’s economic fallout.
Greenwood mayor unveils latest designs for new sports complex
Greenwood Mayor Mark Myers touted the city’s economic development and unveiled renderings for the 40-acre sports complex at his State of the City address.
From Congress to the classroom, Susan Brooks joins IU McKinney
The former congresswoman will be returning to her alma mater, Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law, as a distinguished scholar and ambassador at large, the school announced Wednesday.
Industry vet named president of KSM Location Advisors
Mark Mitchell, an economic development executive with more than 25 years of experience, and Indiana roots, is expected to help KSM Location Advisors build its business in the southern United States.
Fishers to consider $27M in bonds for land acquisitions, life sciences park
Much of the money is earmarked to acquire a 75-acre property for a life sciences business park that will be anchored by Stevanato Group’s planned $145 million pharmaceutical manufacturing facility.
Dems eye $6T plan on infrastructure, Medicare, immigration
Half of the total in the $6 trillion plan is expected to be paid for with Biden’s proposed taxes on corporations and those earning more than $400,000.
Longtime developer Chambers named Indiana secretary of commerce
Brad Chambers, who founded Indianapolis-based powerhouse development firm Buckingham Cos. in 1984, will take his new position July 6. He’ll succeed Jim Schellinger, who stepped down abruptly in March after 5-1/2 years on the job.
Food-packaging manufacturer plans $380M plant, 345-plus jobs in Indiana
The company, which stands to receive more than $6 million in state and local incentives, said it could expand its investment in central Indiana to $490 million and its hiring plans to 425 by 2025.
U.S. proposes 15% minimum tax on global corporate profits
Competition to cut corporate tax rates has been “undermining the United States’ and other countries’ ability to raise the revenue needed to make critical investments,’’ the Treasury said in a statement
Biden plan would pick winners, losers in move to green jobs
President Joe Biden’s $2.3 trillion infrastructure plan calls for investments in industries such as electric vehicles and semiconductors. Critics say the plan gives the government too much involvement in decisions better made by the private sector.
Indiana getting first new insurance commissioner since 2010
Amy Beard, general counsel at the department since 2017, will succeed Stephen Robertson, who was appointed to the role in 2010 by former Gov. Mitch Daniels.
U.S. backs waiving intellectual property rules on vaccines
Opponents—especially from industry—insist that production of coronavirus vaccines is complex and can’t be ramped up by easing intellectual property. They also say lifting protections could hurt future innovation.
Businesses applaud Legislature’s ‘wow’ initiatives
State lawmakers came through in big ways for business and manufacturing interests this year.
Biden to propose free preschool for 5 million children
Funding the initiative would be a tax increase on the rich, most notably a near doubling of the capital gains tax rate on incomes above $1 million, to 39.6%.
Indiana governor vetoes bill requiring ethanol warning label
Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb said he found the “additional layer of government unnecessary and confusing.”
Recap: A glance at key issues during Indiana legislative session
The Indiana General Assembly concluded the year’s regular session late last week in Indianapolis. Here’s a look at some major issues debated during the nearly four-month session.
Democrats, activists call on governor to veto wetlands bill
All Democratic members of the General Assembly, as well as a member of the Senate Republican Caucus, urged the Republican governor to veto the bill in a letter sent last week.
Marion County prosecutor facing criticism after FedEx shooting
The leader of the Indianapolis police union said Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears “failed to do his part” when he chose not to bring Brandon Scott Hole before a judge for a hearing under Indiana’s “red flag” law.
Indiana lawmakers approve state budget, finish session
Several Democratic legislators called it the best state spending plan in years. Republicans described the plan as focused on helping the state’s economy grow in the coming years and helping to give long-deserved raises to teachers.