Indy Standard

As summer begins in Indiana, a range of new state laws will take effect on July 1, according to State Rep. Sharon Negele (R-Attica).

Negele noted that most new laws passed during the 2024 legislative session will be implemented starting July 1, including legislation she authored to support breast cancer prevention. According to the American Cancer Society, women with dense breast tissue are at higher risk for breast cancer and it can be harder to detect. To raise awareness, women with dense breast tissue will be informed of their breast density after a mammogram and receive documentation with more information.

"Creating awareness and opportunities for Hoosier women to learn about their breast tissue can save lives," Negele said. "Early detection is key to tackling breast cancer and with more women learning their tissue type and the associated risks, Indiana is ensuring they have the information they need when considering options for screenings and prevention."

Negele also highlighted other new laws:

Stepping Up For Public Retirees

Indiana's nearly 90,000 retired public servants, including law enforcement officers and teachers, will receive a 13th check to help cover cost-of-living expenses. Existing dedicated funds will be used to make a one-time post-retirement payment averaging about $360 per recipient.

Protecting Hoosier Farmland

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

Safeguarding Hoosiers Online

Artificial intelligence has been used in some cases around the country to create pornography using a real person's image without consent. To protect victims—most often women—Negele authored legislation expanding Indiana's revenge porn statute to include images generated or altered with AI. Perpetrators could face criminal penalties for creating or distributing such content.

More information about these and other new state laws can be found at iga.in.gov. Constituents can contact Negele regarding legislation or request assistance navigating state government at in.gov/h13 or by calling 317-232-9600 or 800-382-9841.

State Rep. Sharon Negele (R-Attica) represents House District 13, which includes all of Benton and Warren counties as well as portions of Fountain, Jasper, Montgomery, Newton, Tippecanoe, and White counties.