Frye highlights new Indiana laws now in effect

New Indiana Laws In Effect

(File Photo)

STATEHOUSE (July 12, 2021) – State Rep. Randy Frye (R-Greensburg) said Hoosiers should be aware of several new state laws effective July 1, including the state budget and those supporting broadband expansion, K-12 education and pro-life issues.

"Indiana's next budget is a win for all Hoosiers with unprecedented investments in education, broadband and economic development," Frye said. "I also supported several new laws to ensure our state remains a leader in protecting life."

Frye highlighted several new and notable laws:

Expanding Broadband Access
Indiana's next two-year, $37 billion state budget reduces taxpayer-funded debt by over $1 billion, and provides opportunities for future tax cuts and reforms. House Enrolled Act 1001 also funds critical government services and proven programs, and invests $250 million to expand reliable and affordable internet service, especially in unserved and underserved areas. House Enrolled Act 1449, which was effective upon passage, prioritizes internet access for Hoosier schools, students and health care clinics in rural communities.

Prioritizing Students, Teachers
With House Enrolled Act 1001, K-12 education will receive a historic, $1.9 billion increase in funding over the next two years to support students and teacher pay raises. A new, $150 million grant program established under House Enrolled Act 1008 supports students who are at risk of falling behind or scored below academic standards because of disruptions caused by COVID-19.

Supporting Pro-Life Movement

To support expectant mothers and their unborn babies, physicians could be required to provide time-sensitive information to pregnant women on how they may stop the progression of a drug-induced abortion. House Enrolled Act 1577, could save lives by helping mothers who want to reverse course and give birth to their child.

Thanks to House Enrolled Act 1032, authored by Frye and effective upon passage, Safe Haven Baby Boxes can now be installed at volunteer fire stations and facilities staffed 24/7 by EMS providers. With House Enrolled Act 1230, parents in crisis can also call 911 to surrender their newborn. Indiana's Safe Haven law allows newborns less than 1 month old to be surrendered without fear of arrest or prosecution. Indiana currently has 63 Safe Haven Baby Boxes, which helped save the lives of five babies in 2020.

Visit [iga.in.gov]iga.in.gov for more information on these and other new laws.