Dale DeVon Representative | District 5
Updates
Empowering Hoosier farmers, local producers
This session, I supported a new law that prevents over-regulation on Hoosier farmers and local vendors, giving them more freedom to sell their products and expanding access to affordable, homegrown food.
House Enrolled Act 1424 prohibits excessive regulation on small farm or homestead vendors. The law expands the amount of agricultural products that can be sold locally and at farmers markets. It also allows direct to consumer shipping across the state, providing more healthy food options for Hoosiers.
To ensure transparency, the law requires appropriate labeling on products, clarifies that local health officials may investigate food-borne illness complaints and includes other consumer protections.
This law will ease the regulatory burden on small farmers and businesses, expand Indiana's local food economy and get more locally grown products into the hands Hoosiers.
Ensuring everyone can enjoy the great outdoors
Indiana is leading the way in making our state parks more accessible so every Hoosier can experience the outdoors. Thanks to a major investment from the Lilly Endowment, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources recently announced new all-terrain track chairs are available at every Indiana State Park, giving individuals with limited mobility the opportunity to explore trails, enjoy scenic views and connect with nature in a way that was not previously possible.
This is an exciting step toward ensuring our public lands are truly open to everyone. This effort reflects a strong partnership between state and local community organizations to expand opportunities and remove barriers. By adding 45 new track chairs statewide, Indiana is a national leader in accessibility in state park systems.
To learn more about this initiative, click here.
This week on Around the House:
LISTEN: Protections for Digital Assets & Cryptocurrency
30% of American adults own some form of cryptocurrency. This week on Around the House, learn more about new laws that modernize Indiana's approach to digital assets while ensuring strong consumer protections.
READ: Measuring Student Success
The Indiana State Board of Education unanimously approved a new K–12 accountability system focused on preparing every student for success after graduation. Learn more about what this means for the future of education in Indiana on this week's blog.
...............................................................................................................................................................
Happy Easter, Hoosiers!
As we head into this holy weekend, celebrating Easter with family and friends, I wanted to wish you and your loved ones a blessed holiday.
Take time to reflect on the meaning of Easter and spend time with those you love.
I'm honored to represent you at the Statehouse. As always, don't hesitate to reach out if I can be of assistance or to share your comments and questions. My office can be reached at in.gov/h5 or by calling 317-232-9816.
Safeguarding minors on social media
This session, I supported a new law creating a framework to protect minors on social media.
House Enrolled Act 1408 requires parental consent before children under 16 can open social media accounts, gives parents greater ability to monitor their child’s online activity and restricts addictive or harmful platform features.
These provisions are designed to reduce exposure to manipulative algorithms, compulsive engagement loops and unsafe online interactions. Under the law, violations are treated as deceptive acts, giving the state clear enforcement authority.
The law is a response to growing concerns about online exploitation, algorithm‑driven content exposure and the mental health effects of heavy social media use among adolescents. Through HEA 1408, we can protect Hoosier youth from the harmful effects of social media by establishing meaningful guardrails and empowering parents with real oversight tools.
This week on Around the House:
LISTEN: Protecting Children Online and in School
Strengthening social media protections and keeping students on task at school were priorities for House Republicans. This week on Around the House, learn more about two new laws passed this session focusing on Hoosier children and making sure they get the best education possible, while staying safe online.
READ: Putting Hoosier Taxpayers First
With tax season upon us, Hoosiers can expect to see additional tax cuts this year. Read this week's blog for a recap of recent tax cuts advanced by Indiana House Republicans.
................................................................................................................................................................
Updates from the 2026 legislative session
We recently kicked off the second half of the 2026 legislative session. This is when House bills move to the Senate and their bills come over to the House for further review.
House Republicans passed all four of our priority bills aimed at lowering costs and supporting Hoosier families. This includes tackling housing costs, improving utility and energy affordability, streamlining government and reducing regulations on K-12 schools.
Additionally, here are some halftime statistics for the bills that passed in the first half of session:
• 91% of all the bills that passed out of the House did so with bipartisan support;
• 75% of all the bills that passed out of the House did so with fewer than 15 "no" votes; and
• 49% of all the bills that passed out of the House did so unanimously.
We're committed to working together to make Indiana the best place to live, work and raise a family.
As we head into the final weeks of the 2026 session, I encourage you to reach out to my office with any questions or comments at in.gov/h5 or 317-232-9816.
Prioritizing energy affordability
House Bill 1002 adds performance-based accountability to ensure utilities are hitting targets aimed at reducing costs and increasing reliability. It also expands the use of levelized billing plans, leading to more predictable monthly payments and preventing bill spikes.
It adds protections for struggling Hoosiers by prohibiting service disconnections during the hottest and coldest days of the year and requires utilities to offer financial assistance programs.
This legislation is a House Republican priority bill to lower energy costs for Hoosiers. For more information on House Bill 1002 and to follow the legislative session, visit iga.in.gov.
This week on Around the House:
LISTEN: Increasing Child Care Access
This week on Around the House, learn about legislation passed by the House to help increase access to child care. This legislation would incentivize more child care options and remove regulatory barriers. Listen here on this week's podcast:
READ: Kicking Off Second Half of Session
The Indiana House of Representatives completed the first half of the 2026 legislative session this week. Of the 427 House bills that were filed, 113 passed out of the House and now head to the Indiana Senate for further action. Read more on this week's blog:
Expanding Indiana's housing supply
Expanding Indiana's housing supply
Recently I supported a House Republican priority bill to increase housing affordability across the state.
House Bill 1001 delivers housing affordability by limiting local mandates and regulatory barriers that impede development and drive up the cost of homes. According to the National Association of Realtors, the average age of a first-time home buyer has risen to 40 years old as home prices have increased.
The legislation limits unnecessary mandates and reduces fees and other costs that get passed on to renters and homebuyers. It also increases transparency and accountability by having local governments report various housing development metrics to identify and address bottlenecks.
The bill makes it easier to convert commercial buildings into housing and modernizes building standards that unnecessarily increase construction costs. The goal of HB 1001 is to reduce bureaucratic delays and hurdles to help get more housing to the market, increasing supply and driving down costs for Hoosiers. HB 1001 passed the House with bipartisan support and now moves to the Senate for consideration.
Indiana ranks 6th nationally for education freedom
Indiana is a national leader in education freedom, continuing to advance policies that empower families to decide the best learning environment for their child.
The American Legislative Exchange Council recently ranked Indiana sixth in the nation in its 2026 Index of State Education Freedom, which compares all 50 states on how many educational options they give families, including student-centered funding, charter schools, homeschooling, virtual schools and open enrollment.
Indiana was recognized for several of these efforts, including expanding our school choice scholarship program so that all Hoosier families are eligible to choose the school that is right for them.
Indiana's school choice policies empower thousands of Hoosier families every year, ensuring students have access to a high-quality education regardless of income or zip code.
Education freedom is about putting families and students first and focusing on outcomes. I will continue to stand up for Hoosier families and support their right to choose what’s best for their children.
Learn More
This week on Around the House:
LISTEN: Let Kids Be Kids
Recently, the House passed legislation to support childhood independence and allow children to engage in age-appropriate unsupervised activities without fear of child services intervention. Learn more about the "Let Kids Be Kids" bill on this week's podcast:
READ: Supporting Hoosier Families in Need
This session, Indiana House lawmakers are partnering with the Indiana Diaper Bank to collect diapers and supplies for families in need. Learn more on this week's blog:
Excluding Candy, Sugary Drinks from SNAP Benefits
Excluding Candy, Sugary Drinks from SNAP Benefits
Indiana recently announced the launch of Smart SNAP, prohibiting SNAP benefits from being used to purchase sugary drinks and candy.
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) provides food assistance to low- and no-income individuals and families. Beginning Jan. 1, the program will no longer cover the cost of sugary drinks and candy, as part of the Make Indiana Healthy Again plan.
Indiana was one of the first states to secure a U.S. Department of Agriculture waiver for this change to help facilitate healthier choices and improved health outcomes for Hoosiers.
Click here to learn more about the state's definitions of candy and sugary drinks.
For more information about Indiana's SNAP program, click here.
New tax cuts in effect starting this year
This year, Indiana residents can look forward to new tax cuts that took effect on Jan. 1 as part of House Republicans' commitment to lowering taxes for hardworking Hoosiers.
Property Taxes
Senate Enrolled Act 1 lowers property taxes for Hoosier homeowners, with a majority expected to pay less property taxes in 2026 than they did in 2025. In total, this new law provides more than $1.3 billion in tax relief to homeowners over the next few years.
Key SEA 1 provisions include a 10% credit on all homestead property tax bills up to $300 with an additional credit for seniors and phasing in a two-thirds property tax deduction on the assessed value of all homes by 2031, along with relief for farmland and rental property owners. Additionally, a new Property Tax Transparency Portal will allow taxpayers to compare their current tax bill with proposed tax rate changes.
Learn More
State Income Tax
Indiana's state income tax rate will be lowered from 3% to 2.95% beginning Jan. 1 and next year it will be lowered to 2.9%. This moves Indiana to one of the lowest income tax rates in the country.
Indiana's legislature has cut taxes for Hoosiers every year over the last decade, saving taxpayers more than $20 billion. To see the Indiana Tax Cut Timeline, click here.
This week on Around the House:
LISTEN: Lowering Costs for Hoosiers
House Republicans recently announced priorities for the 2026 legislative session aimed at lowering housing and utility costs and reducing burdensome regulations to make life more affordable for Hoosier families. Listen to this week's podcast to learn more about House Bills 1001 and 1002:
READ: Delivering for Hoosiers
Indiana's GDP is growing at a faster rate than all neighboring states, and we are one of only 15 states currently experiencing economic expansion and growth. House Republicans are expanding on this growth and leading with our 2026 legislative priorities. Learn more on this week's blog:
Uncover the Hoosier state this summer
Uncover the Hoosier state this summer
Summer is a great time to explore our state and everything it has to offer. Whether you’re looking to relax, stay active or try something new, Indiana has countless ways to enjoy the season.
Each year, nearly 600 events take place across all 92 counties, offering something for everyone. Whether you're into live music, classic car shows, county fairs or outdoor adventures, there’s always something to discover right here at home.
Visit Indiana is our state's official travel guide and is a one-stop resource for discovering destinations, events and attractions across the state. You can search for events by interest, location or time of year.
Event categories the site features include:
• Antiques and shopping
• Arts and crafts
• Fairs and festivals
• Families and kids
• Food and drinks
• History and culture
• Music and dance
• Nature and outdoors
• Sports and competitions
• Theatre and movies
• Vehicles and collectors
You can also explore the Hoosier State Trails challenge, find unique overnight stays or even follow themed road trips.
As your state representative, I encourage you to get out and enjoy Indiana destinations and experiences. Exploring our state not only creates great memories but also supports local businesses and keeps our small towns thriving.
Click here to find your next day trip, weekend getaway or summer tradition.
Overhauling Indiana's K-12 regulations
Overhauling Indiana's K-12 regulations
Did you know Title 20 in Indiana Code, which deals with education, is nearly equal to the length of the entire J.R.R. Tolkien "Lord of the Rings" trilogy? That's over 435,000 words of policy and regulation that schools must sift through to comply with state statute.
That's why House Republicans prioritized a new law to streamline our education regulations, reduce red tape and empower local schools with more control over education decisions.
House Enrolled Act 1002, which I supported, reduces Indiana's education code by nearly 10 percent. This includes eliminating "may" provisions on actions schools can already do without state permission, unused funding programs and inactive commissions, specific mandates enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic and duplicate code. The law also empowers schools to control certain training and professional development for their teachers and staff.
This law is possible thanks to various leaders and stakeholders working together to find and remove outdated requirements and increase clarity in our education laws. It's my hope that by reducing red tape, schools will be able to focus more on providing the best education possible for their students, being responsive to their community and innovating to better meet students' needs.
Click here to learn more about this and other new laws passed during the 2025 legislative session.
Prioritizing Mental Health
Prioritizing mental health this MayMay is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to come together as a community to raise awareness, reduce stigma and take meaningful steps toward supporting mental wellness in Indiana. Since 1949, this month has been a national observance dedicated to education, healing and advocacy.
This year, we’re called to do more than talk, but also act. The 2025 national theme is “Turn Awareness Into Action," which means checking in on loved ones and reaching out for support when you need it.
Indiana is making real progress in mental health. Just a few years ago, we ranked 42nd in the country for mental health access and outcomes. Thanks to the work of dedicated advocates, policy support and organizations like Mental Health America of Indiana, we’ve moved up to 26th. There is more work to do but progress is being made to support Hoosiers' mental health.
Mental Health Resources Available to You:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for free, 24/7 emotional support.
- Indiana 211: Dial 211 for help finding mental health counseling and other community resources.
- National Helpline: Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for referrals to local mental health and substance use treatment programs.
How You Can Help:
- Take a free, anonymous mental health screening at mhascreening.org.
- Start a conversation—ask someone, “How are you, really?”
- Support organizations like Mental Health America of Indiana, which provides care, advocacy and education statewide.
- Wear green this month to support Mental Health Awareness and be “Seen in Green."
Learn MoreIn 2023, a new law prioritized mental health infrastructure through the recommendations of the Indiana Behavioral Health Commission to build a more responsive and accessible behavioral health system. Our new two-year state budget also prioritized mental health funding.
Mental illness impacts around 1 in 5 U.S. adults annually — and behind every number is a person. In May and beyond, let’s commit to building a state where everyone has access to the support they need.
Legislative Session Wrap-up
Indiana House Republicans deliver on key priorities for HoosiersAt the start of the 2025 legislative session, Indiana House Republicans set out to tackle several priorities aimed at protecting taxpayers, empowering Hoosiers and making government more efficient.
As the session concludes, these priority efforts made it across the finish line to improve the lives of Hoosiers and keep our state moving forward.Additionally, the following House Republican priority bills advanced through the House and Senate:
- House Enrolled Act 1001: Enacting an honestly balanced, two-year state budget that reduces government spending, strengthens our commitment to education and public safety, and protects taxpayers.
- House Enrolled Act 1002: Reducing regulations on K-12 schools to increase flexibility and give local communities more control over education decisions.
- House Enrolled Act 1003: Lowering health care costs for Hoosiers by improving transparency and predictability in pricing and billing and giving patients more control over their treatment options.
- House Enrolled Act 1004: Ensuring nonprofit hospitals act as nonprofit entities focused on delivering health care.
- House Enrolled Act 1005: Improving access to housing by expanding the Residential Housing Infrastructure Assistance Program (RIF) and streamlining the regulatory process for housing development.
- House Enrolled Act 1006: Strengthening public safety by creating a review board to investigate prosecutors who refuse to enforce our laws.
- House Enrolled Act 1007: Meeting the needs of today's energy economy while reducing costs for Hoosiers.
- House Enrolled Act 1008: Welcoming Illinois counties that have voted to secede from their state to join us in Indiana.
Learn MoreAs your state representative, it has been a privilege to serve you this session, and I look forward to continuing to work on your behalf to strengthen our community and state. To see the full list of bills that have passed through both the House and Senate and are now heading to the governor’s desk for final approval, click here.
Recognizing Child Abuse Prevention Month
Recognizing Child Abuse Prevention Month
With April being Child Abuse Prevention Month, it's important for Hoosiers to understand the prevalence and know the resources available to prevent it.
This year's theme is "Powered by Hope, Strengthened by Prevention." You might see blue pinwheels around your community, serving as an uplifting reminder of a joyful childhood and the bright futures all children deserve.
The Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) works to raise awareness and connect families to resources.
Healthy Families Indiana is a voluntary home visitation program to help with child development, access to health care and parent education. DCS also collaborates with Community Partners for Child Safety across the state to strengthen family units through home-based services and connecting to resources. Click here to learn about other state resources helping families to prevent child abuse.
Preventing child abuse is crucial to a safer future for Hoosier children. Visit the Child Abuse Prevention Month webpage for more resources and ways to help with prevention efforts.
Learn More
Indiana House Republicans
200 W. Washington Street
Indianapolis, IN 46204
1-800-382-9841
Providing Hoosiers with property tax relief
Providing Hoosiers with property tax reliefThe governor recently signed into law Senate Enrolled Act 1, delivering real property tax relief and long-term reforms for Hoosiers.
Click here for more details on SEA 1.
What this will mean for you:
- $1.3 billion in homeowner savings over the next three years
- Two-thirds of homeowners will pay less property tax in 2026 than in 2025
- Additional savings for fixed-income seniors, disabled veterans, farmers and Hoosier small businesses
SEA 1 provides a 10% property tax credit (up to $300) for all homestead properties starting in 2026. Fixed-income seniors and disabled veterans will qualify for additional stackable credits of up to $550 total, bringing even more savings to those who need it most.
Additionally, the law delivers more than $125 million in tax relief for farmers and exempts more Hoosier small businesses from business personal property taxes. It also reins in local government debt and reduces the total amount of local income tax that local government can capture, reducing the cap from 3.75% to 2.9%, a reduction of $1.9 billion in local taxes.
Learn More
SEA 1 reforms the referendum process for more transparency and creates a new Property Tax Transparency Portal to give taxpayers better access to their tax data.
This law is a big win for homeowners, farmers, seniors and taxpayers across Indiana. To learn more and watch session and committee meetings, visit iga.in.gov.
FAFSA application deadline is April 15
FAFSA application deadline is April 15
As the end of the academic year approaches, many graduating high school students are preparing to continue their education through various programs, whether it be a certificate, associate or bachelor’s degree. Financial aid can play a crucial role in making these opportunities more accessible, and a key resource available is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
To ensure you don’t miss out on state and federal assistance, I encourage students to submit their FAFSA application before the April 15 deadline. Completing the FAFSA is required for accessing federal grants, scholarships and student loans at the majority of educational institutions, including colleges, universities and vocational schools nationwide.
If parents or students have any questions or issues while completing the FAFSA, Learn More Indiana offers support by connecting them to their regional outreach coordinator. These experts are available to assist with FAFSA questions, financial aid concerns and other educational matters. Find your coordinator and contact information here.
Completing the FAFSA is an important step when considering additional education options. I encourage everyone to share this reminder with friends and family who may have students heading to college.
Indiana House Republicans
200 W. Washington Street
Indianapolis, IN 46204
1-800-382-9841