Indy Standard

State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) has been named Legislator of the Year by the Disabled American Veterans for his efforts in supporting veterans and their families in Indiana.

"As a fellow veteran, advocating for Hoosier veterans along with those who are currently serving is one of my top priorities," said Bartels, chair of the House Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee. "It's an honor to receive this award and I'll continue working hard to serve those who selflessly gave of themselves to serve our state and nation."

During this year's legislative session, Bartels co-authored House Enrolled Act 1021, which will create a Green Alert system to notify the public when a veteran or military service member is reported missing and believed to be at risk. This alert system will function similarly to the state's Amber Alert for missing children and Silver Alert for missing seniors.

Bartels also sponsored Senate Enrolled Act 15, which mandates that the Indiana Department of Labor consult with the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs to create and distribute a poster detailing veterans' benefits and services for display in businesses across Indiana.

The Disabled American Veterans Department of Indiana provides free assistance to veterans and their families in obtaining benefits and connecting them to various programs. More information can be found at dav.org.

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State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) represents House District 74, which includes all of Crawford, Perry, and Spencer counties, as well as portions of Dubois and Orange counties.

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