Indy Standard

As summer begins in Indiana, a series of new state laws will take effect on July 1, according to State Representative Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper).

Lindauer stated that most new laws passed during the 2024 legislative session will be implemented starting July 1, with a significant focus on increasing election security. To enhance the protection of Indiana's elections, officials will now have additional tools to maintain accurate and up-to-date voter registration lists. Furthermore, proof of citizenship will be required for individuals registering with temporary IDs, and first-time voters must provide proof of residency.

"The security of our elections is paramount to Hoosiers," Lindauer said. "Maintaining updated voter registration lists and putting guardrails in place to ensure only citizens cast a ballot can ensure that Indiana continues to have fair and free elections."

Lindauer also highlighted several other new laws:

Helping Foster Children

A child can spend months or over a year in foster care until their Child In Need of Services (CHINS) case is resolved. To help reduce this time, the state will implement concurrent plans that include another permanent or long-term care option for the child if family reunification isn't possible. This requirement applies if the child has been removed from the parent for at least 12 of the last 22 months.

Protecting Hoosier Farmland

To protect Indiana's farmland and food supply chain, individuals or entities associated with foreign adversaries like Russia and China are banned from purchasing or leasing agricultural land, as well as mineral, water, or riparian rights. Additionally, China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran are prevented from purchasing or leasing land within a 10-mile radius of military installations.

Supporting Teen Workers

State law will now align with federal standards to remove certain state-imposed employment barriers and provide more flexibility to teenagers who choose to work. For instance, 14- to 15-year-olds will be able to work later in the evening during the summer with parental permission, and work hour restrictions will be lifted for 16- and 17-year-olds.

For more information about these and other new state laws visit iga.in.gov. Constituents can contact Lindauer regarding legislation or request assistance navigating state government at in.gov/h63 or by calling 317-232-9600 or 800-382-9841.