Indy Standard

STATEHOUSE (June 28, 2024) – As summer begins in Indiana, State Representatives Zach Payne (R-Charlestown) and Karen Engleman (R-Georgetown) have informed residents about a range of new state laws taking effect on July 1.

Payne noted that most new laws passed during the 2024 legislative session will be implemented on July 1, including those expanding work-based learning opportunities. Hoosier high school students can 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, certification, and credentialing exams. More information is available at in.gov/tos/csa or by calling 317-232-0723.

"As more students pursue a career outside of the college track, they should have other meaningful opportunities to learn and grow," said State Rep. Zach Payne (R-Charlestown), who co-authored the new law. "With CSAs, Indiana's future workforce will be able to get a head start on their careers, graduating with experience and connections that can help them for years to come."

Engleman highlighted legislative actions on various significant issues this year aimed at protecting Hoosier farmland. To safeguard Indiana's farmland and food supply chain from foreign adversaries like Russia and China, individuals or entities associated with these countries will be banned from purchasing or leasing agricultural land and mineral rights. Additionally, China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran will be prohibited from purchasing or leasing land within a ten-mile radius of military installations.

"Recently, more and more of our adversaries have bought up vital farmland raising legitimate concerns for Indiana's agriculture industry and food supply," Engleman said. "This measure simply ensures our land is protected."

Local lawmakers also emphasized several other new laws:

Cutting Government Red Tape

Food truck operators had expressed concerns about inconsistent regulatory ordinances and costly fees across different counties. To address this issue, counties are now required to create permits that adhere to universal state standards with a fee cap of $200.

Increasing Election Security

To enhance election security in Indiana officials will have additional tools to maintain accurate voter registration lists. Furthermore proof of citizenship will be required for individuals registering with temporary IDs while first-time voters must provide proof of residency.

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

State Rep. Karen Engleman (R-Georgetown) represents House District 70 which includes all of Harrison County along with portions of Clark Floyd and Washington counties.

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