Indy Standard

As summer begins in Indiana, local lawmakers are informing residents about several new state laws set to take effect on July 1.

State Rep. Jim Lucas (R-Seymour) noted that most of the new laws passed during the 2024 legislative session will become effective at the start of next month, including measures to honor first responders. Indiana will introduce the Hoosier First Responder Medal of Honor to recognize firefighters, emergency medical responders, law enforcement officers, and other first responders who demonstrate exceptional service. This award can also be presented posthumously to families of first responders who have died in service.

"Whether it's one of Indiana's firefighters, law enforcement or other first responders, these Hoosiers put their lives on the line to help in an emergency," said Lucas. "To honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, this award will serve as a way to help give these heroes the recognition they deserve."

State Rep. Jennifer Meltzer (R-Shelbyville) emphasized legislative actions addressing various critical issues such as aiding public retirees. Nearly 90,000 retired public servants in Indiana—including law enforcement and teachers—will receive a 13th check aimed at offsetting cost-of-living expenses. Existing dedicated funds will be utilized for this one-time post-retirement payment averaging about $360 per recipient.

"Indiana relies on teachers, police officers and other public servants to provide critical services to all Hoosiers," said Meltzer. "This 13th check is a way to help our public retirees cover some of the gaps in cost-of-living expenses, especially during a time of record-high inflation."

Local lawmakers also highlighted additional new laws:

**Targeting Illicit Drug Use**

An animal tranquilizer called xylazine is increasingly being mixed with street drugs like heroin and fentanyl, causing dangerous side effects and potentially fatal outcomes. To combat its illicit use, possession or dealing of xylazine without a prescription could result in criminal penalties while maintaining its use for veterinary purposes.

**Supporting Foster Children**

Foster children often spend extended periods awaiting resolution of their Child In Need of Services (CHINS) cases. A new law aims to reduce this time by implementing concurrent plans that include alternative permanent or long-term care options if family reunification is not feasible. This applies when a child has been removed from their parent for at least 12 out of the last 22 months.

"CHINS proceedings can take a large amount of time, often leaving the child in foster care until the case is finally resolved," said State Rep. Ryan Lauer (R-Columbus), who authored this legislation. "These prolonged cases can have long-lasting negative effects on these young Hoosiers, and through this new law we can help them find a loving home faster if reunification with their family isn't possible."

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