Indy Standard

As summer begins in Indiana, local lawmakers are informing residents about a range of new state laws taking effect on July 1.

State Rep. Wendy McNamara (R-Evansville) noted that most new laws passed during the 2024 legislative session will be effective from this date, including measures to safeguard Hoosier farmland. To protect Indiana's farmland and food supply chain, individuals or entities associated with foreign adversaries such as Russia and China will be prohibited from purchasing or leasing agricultural land, and mineral, water, or riparian rights. Additionally, China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran will be barred from acquiring land within a 10-mile radius of military installations.

"Protecting our farmland and food supply chain is a top priority for Indiana," McNamara said. "This has been a growing problem in our state, and this new law will stop foreign adversaries from controlling some of Hoosiers' most vital assets."

State Rep. Tim O'Brien (R-Evansville) highlighted actions taken on various pressing issues this year, including efforts to bolster the emergency medical services workforce. With both Indiana and the nation facing a shortage of emergency medical services personnel, a new comprehensive study of the state's 800 EMS providers aims to explore ways to improve services, recruitment and training while addressing workforce challenges.

"When a medical crisis happens, we need reliable emergency medical services to respond," said O'Brien, who authored the new law. "This legislation could go a long way toward ensuring every 911 call is answered quickly and that Hoosiers know help is on the way when they need it most."

Local lawmakers also emphasized other significant new laws:

**Stepping Up For Public Retirees**

Indiana's nearly 90,000 retired public servants such as law enforcement officers and teachers will receive an additional check to help cover cost-of-living expenses. Existing dedicated funds will provide a one-time post-retirement payment averaging about $360 per recipient.

**Expanding Work-Based Learning**

More high school students in Indiana can apply for Career Scholarship Accounts to pursue internships, apprenticeships, and other work-based learning opportunities. The $5,000 scholarship covers expenses like training programs, career coaching sessions, driver's education courses as well as certification and credentialing exams.

"We want all students to be successful and many want to pursue a career outside of college," said State Rep. Matt Hostettler (R-Patoka), who co-authored the new law. "These scholarships open more opportunities for them to get on-site experience and network with professionals before graduation."

For more information about these laws visit iga.in.gov.

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State Rep. Matt Hostettler (R-Patoka) represents House District 64 which includes portions of Gibson Knox Vanderburgh counties.

State Rep. Wendy McNamara (R-Evansville) represents House District 76 which includes all Posey County portion Vanderburgh County.