Last Updated on January 11, 2024 by Indiana House Republicans
STATEHOUSE ― On January 8, House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers) formally announced Indiana House Republicans’ top legislative priorities for the 2024 legislative session.
Huston said the 70-member caucus will focus on supporting Hoosier taxpayers and students through several key legislative proposals. Monday marks the first day of session, which must conclude by March 14.
“We’re expecting a fast and productive session ahead, and we’ll keep our attention on supporting Hoosier taxpayers and students,” Huston said. “Our priorities are focused on expanding work-based learning, boosting third grade reading proficiency, targeting antisemitism, stepping up for our public retirees by passing a 13th check and protecting taxpayers. We’re ready to hit the ground running, and I look forward to working with our House and Senate colleagues, and Governor Holcomb to take our priorities across the finish line.”
Huston said Indiana needs more skilled workers to fill high-demand, high-wage jobs. To boost workforce-based learning and grow the talent pipeline, State Rep. Chuck Goodrich (R-Noblesville) authored House Bill 1001 to expand the Frank O’Bannon Grant and 21st Century Scholarship to include job training in addition to traditional college coursework. Under this proposal, Huston said more students could obtain certificates and certifications, and be better prepared to enter today’s workforce.
Currently, 1 in 5 Hoosier third graders struggle to read at grade level. Huston said House Republicans will support legislative efforts, which are expected to be introduced in the Senate, to make Indiana the No. 1 state in the nation for third grade reading proficiency by 2027.
State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers) authored House Bill 1002 to build on Indiana’s long history of supporting Jewish communities both at home and abroad by targeting antisemitism on college campuses and K-12 classrooms.
State Rep. Greg Steuerwald (R-Avon) said to better support taxpayers and business owners who interact with state agencies, he authored House Bill 1003 to create a more efficient and balanced appeals process that is presided over by administrative law judges.
Huston said House Republicans will also prioritize legislation providing a 13th check to the state’s nearly 100,000 retired public servants like law enforcement and teachers. State Rep. Bob Cherry (R-Greenfield), author of House Bill 1004, said existing, dedicated funds would be used to make a one-time payment to retirees.
Hoosiers can stay informed and engaged during session by visiting iga.in.gov, where they can watch session and committee meetings, track legislation, and view calendars and agendas.
SOURCE: News release from Indiana House Republicans