Indy Standard

As summer begins in Indiana, State Representatives Matt Hostettler (R-Patoka) and Cindy Ledbetter (R-Newburgh) are informing Hoosiers about several new state laws that will take effect on July 1.

Ledbetter noted that most new laws passed during the 2024 legislative session will be effective starting July 1. Among these is legislation aimed at curbing surprise ambulance bills. The law mandates health insurance companies to reimburse ambulance providers regardless of their network status. It also caps copays and deductible payments for out-of-network services at in-network rates.

"The last thing Hoosiers should worry about during a medical emergency is the potential cost of an ambulance ride," said Ledbetter. "This new law will alleviate that stress by ensuring health insurers cover costs while limiting copays and deductibles."

Hostettler highlighted legislative actions on various issues, including expanding work-based learning opportunities. High school students in Indiana can now apply for a Career Scholarship Account, which offers $5,000 to cover expenses such as training, career coaching, driver's education, certification, and credentialing exams. More information can be found at in.gov/tos/csa or by calling 317-232-0723.

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

Other significant new laws include measures to increase election security and protect Hoosier farmland. To enhance election integrity, officials will have additional tools to maintain accurate voter registration lists. Proof of citizenship will be required for individuals registering with temporary IDs, and first-time voters must provide proof of residency.

To safeguard Indiana's farmland and food supply chain, entities associated with foreign adversaries such as 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 prohibited from acquiring land within a 10-mile radius of military installations.

For further details on these and other new state laws, visit iga.in.gov.

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