Indy Standard

Jasper County legislators have been appointed to serve on important House standing committees at the Indiana Statehouse. These appointments are made by the Indiana House Speaker every two years following the November elections and remain in effect for the duration of a member's term.

State Representative Michael Aylesworth, a Republican from Hebron, has been reappointed as chair of the House Agriculture and Rural Development Committee. Additionally, he will be a member of the House Commerce, Small Business and Economic Development Committee and the House Environmental Affairs Committee. "As a farmer and lifelong Hoosier, I am excited to dive back into the agricultural topics that make our state so unique," Aylesworth said. "This session, we will continue to preserve Indiana's rich agricultural history and look for ways to expand and innovate the future of farming."

Newly elected State Representative Matt Commons, also a Republican from Williamsport, will serve on the House Local Government Committee, House Natural Resources Committee, and the House Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee. Commons stated, "Using the knowledge from my time as a local commissioner and in the military will help me contribute to these discussions that will shape Indiana's future." He encouraged constituents to contact his office with questions or comments.

State Representative Kendell Culp, another Republican from Rensselaer, was reappointed as vice chair of the House Environmental Affairs Committee. He will also be part of the House Utilities, Energy and Telecommunications Committee and the House Elections and Apportionment Committee. Culp emphasized that committees are crucial for vetting bills through public testimony and amendments. "House District 16 has the most diverse energy generation portfolio in Indiana," Culp noted. "With so much discussion on energy, I am excited to continue the conversation to create effective solutions to growing concerns."

The legislative session is set to begin on January 8th at 1:30 p.m., where Hoosiers can access information about legislation and participate by viewing committee meetings online.