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. Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute) highlighted that most new laws passed during the 2024 legislative session will be effective from this date, including measures to expand work-based learning. More high school students in Indiana can now apply for a Career Scholarship Account to pursue internships, apprenticeships, and other work-based learning opportunities. The $5,000 scholarship covers expenses such as training, career coaching, driver's education, and certification exams. Additional information is available at in.gov/tos/csa or by calling 317-232-0723.

"Expanding work-based learning opens doors for Hoosier students to gain valuable hands-on experience in their chosen fields," said Heaton, who co-authored the new law. "Through these accounts, Indiana is investing in our students' futures and helping them succeed in high-demand careers."

State Rep. Bruce Borders (R-Jasonville) emphasized actions taken on various issues this year, including efforts to boost student reading proficiency. Currently, one in five third graders in Indiana struggles with reading. Data indicates that individuals with low literacy levels earn less money, have poorer health outcomes, and are more likely to be incarcerated than their peers. To address this issue, the state will enhance its remediation efforts and provide more targeted classroom support starting in second grade. Schools will also be required to offer summer courses focused on reading improvement beginning this year.

"Improving reading proficiency in our youngest learners is important for their future success," Borders said. "By strengthening remediation efforts and offering classroom support in second grade, we can help more students develop strong literacy skills."

Local lawmakers also highlighted additional new laws:

Honoring First Responders

Indiana will recognize firefighters, emergency medical responders, law enforcement officers, and other first responders who exceed expectations through the creation of the Hoosier First Responder Medal of Honor. This award may also be presented posthumously to families of first responders who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the state.

Safeguarding 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 as well as mineral rights or water rights within a 10-mile radius of military installations.

"Protecting Indiana's farmland and food supply is crucial for our security," said State Rep. Alan Morrison (R-Brazil). "By preventing foreign adversaries from buying up land, we're securing local resources and standing up for the agricultural integrity of the state."

For more information about these and other new state laws visit iga.in.gov.

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