Indy Standard

State Representative Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) participated in a briefing at the Indiana Statehouse on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, focused on state-level action on immigration. The event, titled "Fairness for Hoosiers: The Need for State Action on Immigration," brought together Bartels, Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita, Governor Mike Braun, and national security experts Tom Homan and Chad Wolf.

The briefing addressed ways to strengthen cooperation between state, local, and federal agencies in order to improve public safety and ensure consistent enforcement of immigration laws. Leaders answered questions from attendees and discussed the need for reform to address gaps in current federal immigration enforcement.

“When it comes to immigration policy, there is a role for state officials to provide support for federal actions," Bartels said. "We are exploring ways to work more closely with the federal government in an effort to secure our borders and create safer communities in Indiana."

Earlier in the year, Bartels supported House Enrolled Act 1393, which is intended to improve coordination between local law enforcement and federal immigration agencies. More details about this legislation can be found at https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2025/bills/house/1393. He also backed House Bill 1531, a measure that would require local agencies to honor federal immigration detainer requests, provide immunity to officers who comply, and ensure accountability for jurisdictions that refuse to cooperate. Additional information about HB 1531 is available at https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2025/bills/house/1531.

Bartels noted that although HB 1531 did not advance during the 2025 legislative session, addressing the issue remains a priority. He stated that these legislative efforts are part of Indiana’s broader approach to strengthen border security and protect communities from individuals who may pose a threat to public safety.