State seeks new funding for Pence’s bicentennial projects
The dilemma comes after Gov. Eric Holcomb said Thursday he would terminate a tentative deal to lease the state’s cellphone towers for potentially $260 million over 50 years.
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Lawmakers advance plan for ‘competency-based’ CPA license renewal
Currently, the 10,000 CPAs in Indiana do 120 hours of continuing professional education every three years to renew their CPA licenses. The proposal could reduce learning time and boost comprehension.
Fountain Square eatery temporarily closed by state
The Asian restaurant that’s been closed since Feb. 1 isn’t set to reopen until Feb. 15, allegedly due to violating state tax code, according to a sign on the door.
From ISTEP to ILearn: GOP test plan clears first legislative hurdle
A proposal to replace ISTEP won approval from Indiana’s House Education Committee on Thursday, putting what is likely another nail in the deeply unpopular exam’s coffin.
Widely supported work-sharing bill dumped—again
The Indiana Chamber of Commerce, organized labor groups and a bipartisan group of lawmakers have for years pushed the Legislature to implement a work-sharing program.
Governor names Atterholt chief utility regulator
Jim Atterholt, a former lawmaker, most recently served as chief of staff to former Gov. Mike Pence. He is returning to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, where he previously served as chairman.
Holcomb cancels Pence’s $260M cell tower contract
The Pence administration in September said it had agreed to lease the state’s existing cell towers to help the state fund its bicentennial projects and expand broadband capacity.
Big utilities try to tilt solar energy market in their favor
On Thursday, Indiana legislators will begin debating a proposed law that could eventually eliminate much of the financial benefit Indiana homeowners, businesses and even some churches currently reap harvesting the sun's rays.
Bill on short-term rentals resurrected in Indiana House
A proposal in the Indiana House that would restrict local governments from banning short-term rentals—such as Carmel’s recent move to stop owners from sharing their homes on Airbnb—appeared to be dead earlier this week.
House passes pre-K bill that expands access to vouchers
Supporters of expanding state-funded preschool said they are frustrated the bill includes what they view as an expansion of the private school voucher program.
Gas pump advertising campaign targets Indiana fuel tax hike
A trade association will soon adorn gas pumps across Indiana with ads opposing a Republican plan to use higher fuel taxes to pay for infrastructure repairs.
Black lawmakers oppose Marion County judicial selection plan
Black legislative leaders say proposed changes to Marion County's judicial selection process would disenfranchise voters and limit diversity on the bench.
Bill that would restrict bans on short-term rentals stalls in House
The result is a victory for local governments that want to thwart homeowners from offering their houses on Airbnb—but not for homeowners in those communities who wish to use such services to make extra money.
Former higher ed chief Stan Jones dies
Jones was a behind-the-scenes architect of Gov. Frank O’Bannon’s efforts to create a community college system.
House Dems offer road funding plan as alternative to GOP’s
They’re calling the plan “No New Taxes” and arguing Indiana can pay for major road-funding improvements without raising the gas tax.
State health advocates hope proposed cigarette tax reduces smoking
Public health officials say the increase is a proactive approach toward reducing the smoking rate and would serve as a deterrent for young people to even begin.
Ex-Indiana schools chief Bennett ineligible for county seat
Republican precinct committee members elected Tony Bennett to the Clark County Council on Wednesday, but he hasn’t lived in the county long enough to qualify.
Bill would slap tax on online retailers
Lawmakers are advancing a bill that would compel large, online retailers to collect and send sales taxes to the state—injecting Indiana into a national tussle over the issue.
State GOP leaders ready to make another run at Sunday sales
Grocery chains, convenience stores and pharmacies have pushed for years to have Indiana's eight decades-old ban lifted and be able to sell alcohol on Sundays, but a compromise has been elusive.
House approves merit-selection system for Marion County judges
Judges would be selected by a nominating commission and the governor—rather than through elections—under the proposal that is supported by Republicans and opposed by some Democrats.