Indy Standard

Elkhart County legislators have been appointed to key committees in the Indiana House of Representatives for the upcoming term. These appointments, made biennially by the Indiana House Speaker after elections, are effective throughout the members' two-year terms.

State Representative David Abbott (R-Rome City) has been named vice chair of the House Government and Regulatory Reform Committee. He will also serve on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Employment, Labor and Pensions Committee. "Government operations should prioritize serving the public and promoting transparency," Abbott stated. "As vice chair, I will continue working to eliminate regulatory obstacles and advocate for Hoosiers."

State Representative Joanna King (R-Middlebury) will participate as a member of three committees: the House Courts and Criminal Code Committee, the House Government and Regulatory Reform Committee, and the House Public Health Committee. She remarked, "I look forward to diving into a number of issues in my district and across our state as we prepare for the legislative session." King emphasized efforts to reduce health care costs and enhance support for public safety officials.

State Representative Doug Miller (R-Elkhart) has been appointed chair of the House Government and Regulatory Reform Committee. Additionally, he will serve on both the House Local Government Committee and House Environmental Affairs Committee. Miller commented on his role: "Through the House Government and Regulatory Reform Committee, we must continue providing transparency to the public and ensure efficient state services." He is committed to reducing bureaucratic hurdles for residents.

Meanwhile, State Representative Tim Wesco (R-Osceola) retains his position as chair of the House Elections and Apportionment Committee while also serving on two other committees: The House Natural Resources Committee and The Utilities, Energy, and Telecommunications Committee. Wesco highlighted committee responsibilities which include vetting bills through public testimony hearings: "Election security is important, it's critical that we maintain voter confidence each election cycle," Wesco said.

The legislative session is set to commence at 1:30 p.m. on January 8th, 2025. Residents can access information about legislation or view committee meetings online via iga.in.gov.