Indy Standard

Gov. Mike Braun has ceremonially signed new legislation aimed at improving the process for school transfers related to athletic participation in Indiana. The law, authored by State Representative Cory Criswell of Middletown, seeks to streamline the transfer process that students must undergo.

Currently, student transfers require approval from both sending and receiving schools, as well as staff from the Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA). This often involves lengthy procedures such as committee reviews or court appearances. House Enrolled Act 1064 addresses these issues by removing restrictive language that previously prohibited students from transferring primarily for athletic reasons.

“After speaking with families, school officials and IHSSA staff, we worked to create a law that balances student opportunities with school integrity,” said Criswell. “This legislation simplifies the transfer process, giving students more freedom to pursue athletic success while maintaining education standards and fairness throughout schools."

The IHSAA’s internal policies include a one-time transfer limit with full varsity eligibility regardless of a change in address. According to Criswell, this balanced approach builds on past efforts by House Republicans to enhance student opportunities while providing families with choices and preventing excessive transfers that could disrupt school programs.

To learn more about HEA 1064, additional information is available online.