Indy Standard

As summer begins in Indiana, a range of new state laws will take effect starting July 1, according to State Representative Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty).

Bartels noted that most new laws passed during the 2024 legislative session will be implemented on this date. Among these is a public notification system akin to Indiana's Amber Alert and Silver Alert, designed to help first responders locate missing and at-risk veterans and military members. The Green Alert could be issued by the Indiana State Police within 48 hours of a veteran, service member, Indiana National Guard member, or reservist being reported missing.

"The Green Alert will be a noteworthy safety net for our current and former military members," said Bartels, who co-authored the new law. "Our veterans have served Hoosiers in tremendous ways and this new alert system will be an instrumental tool in order to help those individuals."

Bartels also highlighted several 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 assist with cost-of-living expenses. This one-time post-retirement payment will average about $360 per recipient and will be funded from existing dedicated resources.

**Boosting Indiana's Teacher Pipeline**

Individuals interested in transitioning into teaching can apply for Transition to Teaching Scholarships. Eligible applicants must have a bachelor's degree, agree to obtain an initial practitioner license, and commit to teaching in Indiana for at least five years. They may receive a one-time non-renewable scholarship of up to $10,000.

**Increasing Child Care Access**

More low-income parents in Indiana will gain access to safe and affordable child care options that suit their needs. Full-time child care workers and those training for the field can receive assistance covering the costs of their children's care or enrolling their four-year-olds in high-quality pre-K programs.

For more information about these and other new state laws, visit iga.in.gov. Constituents can contact Representative Bartels regarding legislation or assistance with state government navigation at in.gov/h74 or by calling 317-232-9600 or 800-382-9841.

State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) represents House District 74, which includes all of Crawford, Perry and Spencer counties as well as portions of Dubois and Orange counties.