Indy Standard

The Indiana House of Representatives has advanced a bill co-authored by State Representative Greg Steuerwald aimed at enhancing public safety across the state. The proposed legislation, known as House Bill 1006, seeks to provide additional funding for deputy prosecutors through the establishment of the Public Prosecution Fund.

Steuerwald explained that this initiative would encourage the retention of prosecuting attorneys and support more competitive wages. The Indiana Prosecuting Attorneys Council (IPAC) would have the authority to reimburse qualified counties up to 50% for prosecution and public defender service costs.

"For Indiana's criminal justice system to operate effectively, we need to ensure that our public prosecutors have adequate support," Steuerwald stated. "These officials are essential to upholding public safety and the rule of law."

He further noted that the funding could lead to increased salaries for deputy prosecutors and help reduce turnover rates. According to data from the Indiana Supreme Court, nearly all 92 counties in Indiana have fewer lawyers per capita compared to the national average.

Additionally, House Bill 1006 proposes creating a Special Prosecutor Unit within IPAC. This unit aims to increase the number of qualified special prosecutors who can assist in cases involving conflicts of interest or those requiring additional legal resources. Currently, becoming a special prosecutor requires eight years of experience as either a prosecutor or deputy prosecutor.

The bill also suggests establishing a prosecutor review board tasked with examining prosecutors who refuse to prosecute criminal laws. Should a prosecutor be deemed noncompliant by this board, IPAC would withhold their funding.

House Bill 1006 will now proceed to the Senate for further deliberation. More information about this bill and live sessions can be accessed at iga.in.gov.