Lawmakers pass budget with investments in education, entrepreneurism
The final version of the bill eschews a proposed $1 per pack cigarette tax increase. But it includes many of Gov. Eric Holcomb’s priorities.
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Bill to close cold beer loophole approved
The bill sets such a high bar that Jay Ricker, who started selling carryout cold beer at two of his Ricker’s convenience stores, says he will have to stop sales by April 2018.
Legislature passes vaping overhaul that removes controversial security firm scheme
The bill is now in Gov. Eric Holcomb’s hands and awaits his signature or veto.
Indiana lawmakers face big list of bills at session’s end
Indiana House Speaker Brian Bosma says he anticipates the day’s floor session will stretch into early Saturday.
Budget bill includes $22M annually for state pre-K program
The budget allots $22 million annually for the state’s fledgling pre-kindergarten pilot program—$9 million more than the Senate version of the bill proposed, and more than double the $10 million the program gets now.
Roads deal would raise taxes, generate $617M in 2018
The deal—which has the support of both House and Senate leaders—means drivers will pay more at the pump and more when they register their vehicles.
Details of Indiana road-funding agreement begin to emerge
Indiana lawmakers plan to release a broad outline Thursday afternoon of an agreement to raise taxes in order to fund road projects.
Lawmakers nearing new deal on Ricker’s beer carryout issue
The latest version of the bill still needs required signatures from legislative leaders—and it still requires approval from both the House and Senate.
Lawmakers reach tentative agreement on road-funding package
Indiana House Speaker Brian Bosma said the deal hits the "sweet spot" of both chambers' priorities.
Airbnb ban preemption bill in limbo after House vote
Supporters of the bill, which would restrict cities from outright bans on short-term rentals like Airbnbs, have just a few days to bring it up again this year.
Bill allowing governor to choose state schools chief heads to Holcomb’s desk
The bill adds in requirements that the governor appoint someone who has lived in the state for two years and meets educational qualifications.
Bill pits affordable housing against property rights
Affordable housing advocates are worried that a bill lawmakers sent to Gov. Eric Holcomb will exacerbate what they say is a shortage of inexpensive options for Hoosier families.
Indiana Senate OKs new hurdle for minors seeking abortions
The Indiana Senate sent Gov. Eric Holcomb a measure Wednesday that would make it tougher for a minor to have an abortion without her parents knowing about it.
State budget forecast slightly sunnier with another $200M in revenue expected
Indiana lawmakers in final negotiations over the next two-year state budget got some good news Wednesday about revenue projections for 2018 and 2019.
Quiet change found in Indiana bill could mean bigger voucher program
A bill that quietly crossed a crucial legislative hurdle last week would allow private schools to begin receiving state funding from their first day of operation.
Divisive solar-power bill heads to governor
Critics say the legislation will discourage the use of residential solar and hamper the solar industry in Indiana. But supporters say it will help protect consumers who don’t have solar.
Legislature abandons more lenient approach to Ricker’s situation
The Senate voted 40-8 to approve House Bill 1496, which would likely prevent Ricker’s from selling cold beer for carryout after its annual permits expire next year.
Senate passes $32.1B budget that avoids cigarette tax hike
Now the House and Senate will take the next two weeks to hash out their differences on the state spending plan.
Indiana House approves abortion parental notification bill
The House approved the parental notification measure in a 75-23 vote, despite confusion over its effect. Seven Democrats voted in favor, while one Republican voted against it.
Ricker’s would get reprieve—for now—under measure approved by House panel
The convenience store chain would be able to keep the permits that two locations use to sell cold carryout beer—a hot-button issue for Indiana liquor stores. Renewing the permits might be trickier.