Indy Standard

The legislative session in Indiana concluded with the passage of a balanced state budget and significant tax relief measures, as announced by State Representatives Cory Criswell and Lindsay Patterson. The new budget aims to lower the state's income tax over the next two years, saving taxpayers more than $200 million annually. Additionally, property tax relief and reform legislation were passed, projected to save Hoosiers $1.3 billion over two years.

Criswell emphasized the focus on empowering communities and reducing burdens on schools: "We made it a priority this session to empower Hoosiers and reduce unnecessary burdens on our schools," he stated. Investments in education, public safety, and infrastructure are also part of the budget plan.

Patterson highlighted fiscal responsibility as a key theme of the session: “This was a session focused on fiscal responsibility and real progress in a number of areas," she said. Improvements in healthcare transparency and community strengthening were noted as tangible outcomes for residents.

All eight House Republican priority items advanced to the Governor's desk before adjournment. These include House Enrolled Act 1001 for an efficient government budget, House Enrolled Act 1002 for reducing K-12 school regulations, and House Enrolled Act 1003 for lowering healthcare costs through improved transparency.

Other notable acts include ensuring nonprofit hospitals focus on healthcare delivery (House Enrolled Act 1004), improving housing access (House Enrolled Act 1005), strengthening public safety (House Enrolled Act 1006), addressing energy economy needs (House Enrolled Act 1007), and welcoming Illinois counties seeking to join Indiana (House Enrolled Act 1008).

State Rep. Cory Criswell represents House District 54, covering parts of Hancock, Henry, Rush, and Shelby counties.