Indy Standard

Lake County legislators have been appointed to key House standing committees at the Statehouse. These appointments are made biennially by the Indiana House Speaker following the November election and remain effective for the duration of a member's two-year term.

State Representative Michael Aylesworth (R-Hebron) has been reappointed as chair of the House Agriculture and Rural Development Committee. He will also serve on the House Commerce, Small Business and Economic Development Committee, as well as the House Environmental Affairs Committee. Aylesworth expressed enthusiasm about his role, stating, "As a farmer and lifelong Hoosier, I am excited to dive back into the agricultural topics that make our state so unique." He added that they would continue to preserve Indiana's agricultural history while exploring future innovations in farming.

State Representative Julie Olthoff (R-Crown Point) will take on the role of vice chair for the House Education Commerce, Small Business and Economic Development Committee. Additionally, she will be a member of both the House Family, Children and Human Affairs Committee and the House Rules and Legislative Procedures Committee. Olthoff highlighted her commitment to business growth in Indiana: "Keeping Indiana an employment destination that fosters growth and development for all businesses is important," she said.

Meanwhile, State Representative Hal Slager (R-Schererville) was appointed vice chair of both the House Rules and Legislative Procedures Committee and the Local Government Finance subcommittee under Ways and Means. He will also participate in discussions within the House Financial Institutions Committee. Slager noted that committees play a crucial role in vetting bills through public testimony and amendments: "Every two years, Indiana lawmakers have the responsibility of passing a new budget to carry the state forward," he remarked.

The first day of Indiana's 2025 legislative session is scheduled for January 8 at 1:30 p.m., where lawmakers will convene to begin their work. Residents can access information about legislation, calendars, committee meetings, and sessions via iga.in.gov.