Indy Standard

The 2025 legislative session has commenced, with a focus on advancing efforts significant to the community. The session will involve authoring, testifying, and voting on bills addressing constituent concerns. This year, the emphasis is on maintaining Indiana's competitiveness in agriculture by supporting farmers and rural communities.

Indiana's farmland covers over two-thirds of the state, amounting to nearly 15 million acres. Agriculture contributes approximately $35 billion to the state's economy. Despite there being more than 53,000 farms currently operating, this number has decreased from nearly 57,000 in 2017. In response, efforts are underway to support farmers through tax incentives and protecting prime farmland.

A challenge faced by many is the inability to pass farms down to future generations, often resulting in land being sold for development or non-agricultural use. To address this issue, House Bill 1191 is proposed to incentivize young or beginning farmers to take over agricultural operations from retiring farmers.

Additionally, House Bill 1234 has been authored to further protect prime farmland. This bill would establish an agricultural conservation easement fund and agricultural land protection program in coordination with the Indiana State Department of Agriculture. Families can place their land in an easement and gift it to a trusted entity instead of selling it for development. These easements allow family farms to maintain and improve their land while under protection.

With more legislation still being developed, there is enthusiasm for representing House District 16 during this session. Constituents are encouraged to reach out with questions or follow legislative updates online.