IndianaHB 1003Second Regular Session 124th General Assembly (2026)HouseWALLET

Boards and commissions.

Sponsored By: Steve Bartels (Republican)

Became Law

government and regulatory reformthe senate

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

97 provisions identified: 39 benefits, 17 costs, 41 mixed.

Better children's health coverage and oversight

Beginning July 1, 2027, the children’s health program must cover age‑appropriate preventive, primary, and acute care and include listed basic services. It must give mental health the same limits and costs as other care and cover inpatient, residential, community, and outpatient services (some may need prior authorization). Each year by April 1, the office reports on the program’s past‑year activities to legislative and oversight bodies.

Grants for spinal and brain injury

Starting July 1, 2027, an 11‑member board runs a spinal cord and brain injury fund, reviews research, keeps a registry, and makes grants. Clinics that get grants must be 501(c) tax‑exempt, employ Indiana‑licensed physical therapists, and provide long‑term activity‑based therapy at affordable rates in Indiana. At least 10% and not more than 15% of the fund must go to post‑acute spinal cord treatment; at least 10% and not more than 15% must go to brain injury services; no more than 50% may fund statewide trauma system development.

More loan help for mental health workers

Starting July 1, 2027, eligible mental health and addiction clinicians can get up to $25,000 a year toward training loans, for up to four years. Psychiatrists in addiction fellowships can get up to five years. For each year of payments, you must work one year in qualifying Indiana treatment settings and be starting a new Indiana job or returning after three years away. The state also creates dedicated accounts to fund loan forgiveness and to support behavioral‑health residencies and fellowships.

Faster license renewals and notices

Starting July 1, 2027, the licensing agency must post agendas 72 hours early and meeting minutes within 14 days. It must send incomplete‑application reminders every 14 days and a renewal warning at least 90 days before expiration. Renewals are processed within 10 days (24 hours in person), or delayed up to 120 days for investigation with notice; otherwise the license renews. New forms are posted 60 days before use, and board vacancies are posted within 14 days.

Refund help if career college fails

Starting July 1, 2027, a state fund helps repay students when a for‑profit, credit‑bearing college fails to deliver. Schools must pay each quarter: 0.1% of tuition and fees earned that quarter plus $60. Students can claim only tuition and fees within five years. The fund pays loan balances first, then any federal grant amounts owed, then other student payments.

Self‑certify Class 1 design releases

Beginning July 1, 2027, a Class 1 project may get a design release by self‑certification from an Indiana registered design professional who qualifies. The certifier must be in good standing, registered at least five years, have worked on at least five Indiana projects, and carry at least $500,000 per claim and $1,000,000 aggregate liability insurance. The state issues a release or confirmation number by the next business day without a technical plan review. The state may audit, require fixes, suspend certification authority, refer violations, impose civil penalties, and collect plan review fees if problems are found.

More state bodies under tort claims

Starting July 1, 2027, more state entities are covered by the tort claims law. This includes the BMV commission, certain former advisory board members, some approved colleges in limited data‑breach cases after data sharing, and the state fair commission and board. People can bring claims against these bodies under state tort rules.

Stronger protection and penalties at Monument Circle

Starting July 1, 2026, the commission must set rules for the Monument and Monument Circle, subject to the governor’s approval. The superintendent and certain staff have constable‑level police powers on site. Anyone who intentionally damages or removes state property there owes at least twice the repair or replacement cost.

Tougher discipline for licensed pros

The law expands reasons the state can discipline licensed practitioners. It now covers fraud, false ads, falsified CE records, crimes tied to competence, practicing while unfit, and more. A certified copy of discipline from another state counts as evidence. Added drug‑crime convictions allow or require license denial, suspension, or revocation, including for some serious dealing or manufacturing offenses.

Local bridge grants cover up to 80%

Beginning July 1, 2027, counties can get grants for up to 80% of a local bridge project. Counties must cover at least 20%, which can include labor and materials, and must notify the Department of Local Government Finance. The department must decide within 60 days and its decision is final. A written agreement must spell out how the money can be used. The law also ends the old grant board and its staff support and requires clear, statewide criteria for fair awards.

Review zoning to add more homes

Starting July 1, 2026, each city, town, or county must hold a public hearing by January 1, 2027 to review rules to grow housing. They must consider options like allowing duplexes to fourplexes in single‑family areas, permitting accessory dwelling units, reusing commercial buildings, and raising floor area ratios. They must also consider easing some design or dimensional rules, reviewing impact fee zones, speeding permits by 15+ days, using tax abatements for higher‑density and mixed‑income projects, and donating vacant land for affordable housing.

Faster enforcement of new OSHA rules

Beginning July 1, 2027, the state can enforce a new federal OSHA standard 60 days after it takes effect. The commission or board may still adopt an alternative standard that is at least as protective.

Kids First Trust moves to children’s commission

After June 30, 2027, the commission on improving the status of children runs the Kids First Trust Fund. It approves projects, recommends funding, and submits a yearly budget. The state also creates a Kids First Trust special license plate on July 1, 2027. The children’s commission must approve the final plate design.

New building limits near Memorial Place

Beginning July 1, 2026, the commission can use condemnation to limit building type, height, and use within 300 feet of Memorial Place. This can restrict redevelopment options and reduce property value for affected owners.

New BMV fees for titles and plates

Beginning July 1, 2026, the passenger vehicle registration fee is $21.35 per year and a motorcycle is $26.35. A not‑for‑hire bus is $16.35. Recovery vehicles cost $504 if over 16,000 pounds, or $72 if 16,000 pounds or less. The vehicle title fee is $15; a late title penalty is $30; a duplicate title is $15; and most special ID applications are $10. Parts of many fees go to the emergency communications fund and other state funds.

New fees for insurance CE providers

Starting July 1, 2027, insurance CE course providers must pay $40 per course submitted or a $500 annual fee due January 1 for unlimited submissions that year. Some course types cannot be approved. Course approvals last no more than two years. Fees go to the insurance department fund, and fees may be waived under reciprocity.

Stricter rules for steel welding

Beginning July 1, 2027, contractors whose workers weld structural steel must use welders certified by an American Welding Society (AWS) testing facility or individual. Welds must meet the AWS D1.1 code and project rules, and a certified welding inspector must inspect the work. The department can order fixes within 30 days and can mark a contractor not responsible for up to 48 months if violations are not fixed. That finding cannot be used by other state or local agencies.

Health interpreter commission repealed

The state ends the Commission on Health Care Interpreters and Translators on July 1, 2027. Ending the commission may reduce statewide coordination for interpreter standards and services used by patients with limited English.

Easier home child care, stronger safety

Starting July 1, 2027, the state sets minimum care and safety rules for secure child facilities and must license those that meet them. Some church‑run 501(c)(3) child institutions and group homes are exempt from licensure if they are not for‑profit 24‑hour homes and do not take delinquent children; they still must meet sanitation and fire alarm/drill rules. The department can grant rule variances or waivers only with a written request showing equal safety or undue hardship; any conflict with building or fire rules needs extra approval. Cities and towns cannot ban a home child care just because it is a business or set different child limits than state law. Home child care in the operator’s primary home must meet the same zoning and building rules as other homes.

Amusement ride permits and exemptions

Beginning July 1, 2027, operators of regulated amusement devices must get an operating permit that expires in one year. The sworn application must show staff training, shutdown authority, and acceptance of financial responsibility, and the operator must pay the inspection fee. Some low‑risk devices, like a barrel train pulled by a garden tractor, do not need a permit or inspection, but must follow other safety rules. The department may inspect an exempt device only after a valid complaint or incident.

New rules for boiler inspections

Beginning July 1, 2027, owners of regulated boilers and pressure vessels must get an operating permit. You must submit a report from a licensed inspector and pay the set fee. The department can set inspection and permit periods up to five years. It can name licensed inspectors as its agents and audit both inspectors and inspections.

Certified welders on public works jobs

Starting July 1, 2027, structural steel welders on public works must be tested and certified by an American Welding Society‑accredited tester. Job specs must list the AWS D1.1 structural steel welding code as of July 1, 2023, and any DHS rules. A certified welding inspector must perform structural weld inspections. This improves safety and may raise contractor costs.

Statewide public‑safety system run by Homeland Security

Starting July 1, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security runs the statewide public safety voice and data system. The department can contract for the system, use commercial providers, and must follow state purchasing rules. It sets who may use the system, but it cannot stop local agencies from using their own systems. Agencies need department approval to join and may be charged for system use. The department pays related member expenses from its budget.

Minority health duties move to commission

On July 1, 2027, the Interagency State Council on Black and Minority Health ends. The Indiana Cultural Commission takes over its work. The commission must study needs, review services and laws, recommend improvements, monitor progress, and create a plan and timeline to reduce health disparities.

DHS now runs building and fire rules

On July 1, 2027, the Department of Homeland Security takes over the Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission’s powers, rules, cases, and permits. State rules preempt local ordinances that conflict with state fire and building codes. DHS keeps plan blueprints for inspection or loan and may place them in the state archives. The Fire and Building Services Fund is administered by DHS; fees and certain taxes are deposited, invested, and do not revert at year end. Indoor waste tire storage sites must follow DHS safety rules and keep required financial assurance and manifests.

Modernized state building code rules

Starting July 1, 2027, cities and counties must enforce the state’s building and fire safety codes. Counties with a building department may adopt local building, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and sanitation standards for unincorporated areas if DHS approves in writing. The state may not deny a construction permit based only on noncompliance or suspected noncompliance with DHS building rules. Following department rules that include ANSI A117.1 satisfies multifamily accessibility design rules. The department may let projects follow newer named model codes with public notice and conditions. Two older code statutes are repealed, removing some prior code‑replacement and standards provisions.

Higher ed oversight moves to commission

Effective July 1, 2027, the Commission for Higher Education takes over proprietary education oversight, the teaching endowment program, and related rules and funds. The law defines which affiliated institutions qualify under commission procedures. Nursing programs can file for accreditation early, and after authorization the board must decide within 90 days. The Medical Graduate and Education Board is reset to 14 members, and the chair votes only to break ties. The governor no longer uses seven‑member nominating committees for student and faculty appointees. The state board must also consult listed groups, including the veterans agency, in long‑range CTE planning.

New board to review workplace safety orders

Beginning July 1, 2027, a Board of Safety Review inside the department hears challenges to safety orders, penalties, and notices. Enforcement is paused while a proper contest is pending. The board can affirm, change, or dismiss actions, set or revise standards, and hear variance requests. On July 1, 2027, the Occupational Safety Standards Commission’s rules, funds, records, and cases transfer to the board. The department may temporarily suspend a practitioner’s license when it finds a clear and immediate danger to health, safety, or property.

Off-road title changes and Native plate

Beginning July 1, 2026, owners of Indiana‑registered off‑road vehicles or snowmobiles can add a joint owner or transfer a joint owner’s share by applying to the bureau and meeting title rules. The bureau must also design and issue an Indiana Native American trust special group license plate with input from the Native American Indian affairs and cultural commissions.

No insurer steering kids off employer plans

Beginning July 1, 2027, an insurer or its paid agent cannot refer you or your dependent to the children’s health program if you already have employer coverage underwritten by that insurer. The state also works with the policy board to reduce employers’ incentives to cut dependent coverage.

Faster building plan reviews and choices

Beginning July 1, 2027, only the agency that performs the initial plan review may charge a fee, stopping duplicate charges. All variance applications appear on a public website, local officials get notice, and the state waits at least five business days before its first decision. By July 1, 2027, the state publishes which projects can get a release without plan review. For Class 2 buildings, you can pick a local inspector, another locality’s inspector, or a private architect, engineer, or certified building official for plan review or inspection.

Easier path to inspector licenses

Beginning July 1, 2027, the department issues boiler and pressure vessel inspector licenses when you meet rule qualifications, pass an exam, and pay the fee. Parts of the exam may be waived if you hold an equivalent out‑of‑state license or a National Board commission.

Kids First Trust Fund oversight and reports

On July 1, 2027, an old definition for the fund’s board is removed. The Treasurer continues to administer the fund, which keeps its sources (appropriations, plate fees, donations, interest, transfers). Money does not revert and is annually appropriated to the department for approved projects. The department may not request funds for a project unless the board or commission approved it. Each year after 2026, the commission must send a program report to the General Assembly by October 1 and submit its annual fund budget before January 1, 2028 and each year after.

New cultural commission and Native funding

Starting July 1, 2026, Indiana creates a 15‑member Cultural Commission. It can receive and spend money in a special fund and must report each year. The state also creates the Indiana Native American trust fund. The state helps form a Native American nonprofit and transfers related license plate revenue to it once it is ready.

New fundraising and public use for memorials

Beginning July 1, 2026, the commission may set up a nonprofit, move donations and artifacts to it, and open souvenir shops. Shop profits go to a dedicated fund for upkeep and acquisitions. Veterans groups and public meetings can use commission buildings rent‑free or for a small rent. With the governor’s approval, the commission may hire contractors for new structures. Counties that run a World War memorial get similar powers.

Old criminal rule for health grants repealed

Starting July 1, 2027, a criminal provision tied to certain state health grants and programs is repealed. Other fraud and misuse laws still apply.

Provisional licenses for migrant child programs

Beginning July 1, 2027, programs that serve migrant children and are certified by federal HHS get a provisional state license for up to one year. The state reviews them every three months if they follow rules. Homeland Security must inspect these programs. Agencies must write rules tailored to these programs.

State sets minimum jail standards

Beginning July 1, 2027, the state sets minimum standards for county jails. Rules cover facility conditions, services and programs, care and control, and restraint of pregnant inmates. The state cannot ban more than one prisoner per cell if each gets at least 35 square feet.

State youth justice oversight and family voice

Beginning July 1, 2027, the state runs a new juvenile justice oversight group. It must track youth justice data, set risk and detention screening tools, and plan behavioral health and transition services. A new youth and family engagement program funds youth members and gathers feedback. The commission files a public report each year by September 1.

Veterans’ names added to memorial archives

Beginning July 1, 2026, the commission must place the names of those who served in World War II, the Korean Conflict, and the Vietnam Conflict in the World War Memorial archives in Indianapolis.

War memorials shift to Veterans Affairs

On July 1, 2026, all powers and funds of the Indiana War Memorials Commission move to the Indiana Department of Veterans’ Affairs. Existing rules continue as department rules. The Indiana Battle Flags Fund continues under the department, is continuously appropriated, can pay admin costs, earns interest, and does not revert at year end.

Harsher penalties for reckless explosives use

Starting July 1, 2027, reckless violations of rules on regulated explosives are crimes. A reckless violation is a Class A misdemeanor; if it causes injury it is a Level 6 felony, and if it causes death it is a Level 5 felony.

Stronger safety oversight and easier payments

As of July 1, 2026, the safety article refers to the Department of Homeland Security as the department. Beginning July 1, 2027, the department may take credit cards for licenses and fees. Trade secret data given to safety authorities is confidential. The department can inspect amusement devices after accidents or complaints and must push other agencies to fix overlapping rules.

Tougher rules for professional licensing

The department can rescind a license or void an exam if someone used fraud or cheated, and can bar reapplying. It may deny a license based on discipline or unlicensed practice in another state, using certified records as proof. It can order a physical or mental exam when a practitioner’s fitness is at issue and suspend if they refuse. Complaints sent to the attorney general are referred to the department for quick review. The licensing agency may set procedural rules that apply to multiple boards.

Emergency communications funds and spending rules

Beginning July 1, 2026, the state runs two emergency communications funds. Money can come from appropriations, grants, gifts, user fees, and some motor‑vehicle collections. The treasurer invests idle balances, and funds do not revert. Money can pay for building, operating, and financing the system, and payments to the finance authority come first. The fund is appropriated each year to the department with budget agency approval.

Libraries can prepay key expenses

Beginning July 1, 2027, a library board may allow advance payments for listed expenses with a board‑approved resolution and written approval. Every payment must have a full invoice and the director’s certification. Library materials are exempt from some state procurement rules. Library automation purchases must meet state standards.

Ongoing funding for radios and crime lab

Beginning July 1, 2026, money in the integrated emergency communications fund is set aside each year. The department can use it, with budget approval, to acquire, run, and finance the statewide public safety system and user equipment. The state police can receive money to address crime lab backlogs, as determined by the budget agency.

Public safety communications move to Homeland Security

Starting July 1, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security takes over all powers, duties, assets, liabilities, rules, appropriations, and contracts of the Integrated Public Safety Commission. After June 30, 2026, references to the commission mean the department.

Stronger statewide emergency planning

Starting July 1, 2027, the state keeps a current emergency plan. The plan focuses on preventing harm, quick response, and relief. It maps vulnerable areas, coordinates help, and plans communications across agencies. This improves safety for communities statewide.

More county hospitals covered by statute

Beginning July 1, 2026, the law applies to county hospitals in counties with more than 16,700 and less than 20,000 people. The upper limit was 19,000, so more counties and hospitals are now covered.

New infant mortality prevention fund

Beginning July 1, 2027, the state creates an infant mortality account inside the kids first trust fund. The treasurer manages it, pays its costs from the account, and invests the money. The account funds education and programs approved to reduce infant deaths. Money does not revert at year end.

Statewide 211 help line gets funding

On July 1, 2027, a 211 services fund supports a statewide human‑services directory and 24/7 access. Money can come from state and federal funds, gifts, and earnings. The office prepares an annual plan. Balances do not revert to the general fund.

Stronger public health rules and oversight

Starting July 1, 2027, the children’s health program must be independently evaluated and reported to state boards. The executive board can adopt public‑health rules on sanitation, disease control, pools, camps, and tattoo sanitation, while staying within existing law. The health department must set facility standards, coordinate with Medicaid, and recommend fire‑safety rules; it also classifies facility types. On July 1, 2026, county hospital boards are limited to at most two members from outside the hospital’s county, and any nonresident must live in Indiana and meet appointment conditions. On July 1, 2027, the Commission for Higher Education takes over duties for certain mental health and addiction development programs.

Temporary task force on farm promotion

The state creates a temporary task force to study how to promote and regulate agriculture. It must meet at least four times and report ideas by November 1, 2026. The group ends June 30, 2027.

New driver license and permit fees

Beginning July 1, 2026, license application and renewal fees are $17.50 if under 75, $11 age 75–84, and $7 age 85+. CDLs cost $35–$36, a commercial learner permit is $17, and most endorsements are $19; a for‑hire endorsement is $19. Motorcycle permits are $9 or $9.50, and the state skills test is $5 (contractor test fees follow bureau rules). Replacements cost $9 (or $10.50/$5.50 for some pre‑2017 cards). The bureau may charge $25 for expedited physical cards. You may renew by mail or online if set conditions are met, like a recent photo on file and no name or address change. Fees are waived for people in Department of Child Services care and qualifying homeless youth with the required affidavit.

Lower pay for some state board members

Starting July 1, 2026, some commission members lose the statutory minimum per diem and, in some cases, travel reimbursements. Natural Resources Commission members who are not state employees no longer get per diem or travel reimbursements. Council members who are not state employees lose per diem but still can get travel reimbursements. Beginning July 1, 2027, development committee members no longer get the per diem but may be repaid for actual travel and expenses under state policy.

New vehicle registration fees and splits

Beginning July 1, 2026, Indiana resets many vehicle registration fees and how the money is split. Examples: $16.35 for collector vehicles, $29.35 for RVs, $82 for a permanent semitrailer, $41 for a permanent farm semitrailer, and $12 for a permanent military vehicle. Trucks, tractors, for‑hire buses, and trailers pay tiered fees based on declared weight. Most fees send $1.25 to the integrated public safety emergency communications fund and $3.10 to the commission fund, with the rest to road and related funds. Different rules can apply to vehicles registered under the International Registration Plan.

Off-road and boat registration changes

Starting July 1, 2026, you pay $9.50 to replace a lost or damaged off‑road vehicle or snowmobile registration or decal. You also pay $9.50 to amend ownership or fix incorrect information. Watercraft owners pay $9.50 to replace or amend registrations. If a certificate or decal was stolen, you must notify local law enforcement. The law splits each $9.50 across several state funds, including the emergency communications fund and the commission fund.

Special group plate fees and add‑on

Beginning July 1, 2026, a special plate costs $8 to issue. Each special recognition plate also has a $15 yearly supplemental fee. Some designated plates pay a service charge instead of a registration fee: $5.75 if issued before Jan 1, 2017, or $5.00 if issued after Dec 31, 2016. The money is shared across state funds, including the emergency communications fund and the commission fund.

Temporary vehicle permits cost $18

Beginning July 1, 2026, a temporary registration permit costs $18 and lasts 30 days. A temporary delivery permit costs $18 and lasts 96 hours. Both require proof of financial responsibility. Misuse beyond the allowed period is a Class C infraction. Parts of each fee go to the emergency communications fund and other state funds.

New CE rules for elevator licenses

To renew an individual elevator license, you must complete at least 8 hours of CE within the year before renewal and send proof to the department. CE providers, instructors, and course content must be approved by the department for the hours to count. These rules add time, approval, and documentation steps.

New fees for child care and youth homes

Beginning July 1, 2027, child care centers pay $2 per licensed child slot to apply or renew. A new inquiry packet can cost up to $5, and a child care home annual inspection can cost up to $25. Child caring institutions and group homes can be charged up to $3 per licensed bed, capped at $150. Child placing agencies can be charged up to $50 per application or renewal.

New permits for explosives storage

Beginning July 1, 2027, the state issues one‑year permits for regulated explosives magazines. Applicants must file location and quantity details, pass an inspection, ban open flames indoors, and pay the set fee. Using regulated explosives without a state license is illegal. Storing regulated explosives without a valid magazine permit is a Class C infraction. Consumer fireworks and limited black powder exclusions and other rule‑based exemptions still apply.

Tests and fees for tank operators

Beginning July 1, 2027, to get certified to operate underground storage tanks, you must pass an approved exam and pay fees that cover administration. Exams cover the rules, and reciprocity is allowed.

Utility consumer council repealed

On July 1, 2027, the advisory council to the office of the utility consumer counselor is eliminated. The council’s appointment and membership rules are removed.

Schools face more state safety rules

On July 1, 2027, school boards must follow listed state agency rules when using their powers. A high school that moves into a building must meet the building‑use safety rules that applied to that building before the school used it. The Department of Homeland Security can grant variances.

Board members lose per diem, get expenses

Starting July 1, 2026, board members who are not state employees no longer receive the standard per diem. They still get mileage, travel, and other actual expenses. Legislator members keep their set per diem and travel, paid from legislative funds.

ID cards: $9 fee and waivers

Beginning July 1, 2026, issuing, renewing, replacing, or amending an ID issued after December 31, 2016 costs $9, split among state funds. Older IDs keep pre‑2017 fee rules (for example, $11.50 for some under age 65). No fee applies for people who will be 18 and eligible to vote in the next election, youth at least 16 in Department of Child Services care, and qualifying homeless youth who show the required affidavit. The bureau may set rules to verify identity, lawful status, and residence and may void licenses issued using fraudulent documents.

Stronger child care safety and ratings

Beginning July 1, 2027, child care sites must have at least two exits on different sides, hold monthly fire drills with 12 months of records, and keep ABC fire extinguishers (2.5 lb or larger) on each floor and in the kitchen. The state also launches a voluntary Paths to QUALITY rating system with four levels to guide families and providers.

E‑recording at recorders; board ends

Starting July 1, 2027, county recorders must accept lawful electronic documents for recording and take electronic payments. They must still accept paper and keep both in the same index. Some documents, like military discharges and plats, cannot be recorded electronically. Also on July 1, 2027, the state eliminates the electronic recording commission, changing who sets or maintains standards.

Certified inspectors for amusement rides

Starting July 1, 2027, the state adopts ASTM safety standards for amusement devices. Inspectors employed or contracted by the state must hold at least a Level 1 certification from NAARSO or an approved equivalent. The chief inspector or supervisor must also be certified. This raises training standards and improves safety.

Changes to hearing and speech boards

On July 1, 2026, the hearing aid examiners committee goes to four members: three licensed dealers and one consumer; three make a quorum. On July 1, 2027, the speech‑language and audiology board has four members, at least two SLPs and two audiologists. All must hold active Indiana licenses, and meetings are in Indiana.

State offices open 8.5 hours

Beginning July 1, 2027, state offices must be open 8.5 hours each workday. State employees must work 7.5 hours and get a one‑hour lunch. Lunch times must be staggered to keep offices open.

Small fees for plate and title changes

Starting July 1, 2026, you pay $9.50 to transfer a registration and plates, change ownership or add a joint owner, switch a farm registration to non‑farm, or change plates outside renewal. A duplicate plate or registration costs $9.50, but the bureau can waive the fee for a duplicate registration requested online. If the bureau made the error, it cannot charge any fee. If your plate or proof was lost or stolen, you must notify law enforcement as required. Parts of each fee go to the emergency communications fund and other state funds.

Fire‑safety rules for bed and breakfasts

Starting July 1, 2027, the Department of Homeland Security sets fire‑safety standards for bed and breakfast businesses. Owners must follow the new rules. This improves guest safety and may add compliance costs.

Tighter safety for farm labor housing

Starting July 1, 2027, the state sets health and safety rules for agricultural labor camps, including living space, sanitation, fire safety, and sewage. The Environmental Rules Board sets water‑supply rules for these camps. The law also ends an older bunkhouse sprinkler exemption on July 1, 2027, so sprinklers may be required. These changes improve safety but may raise costs for camp owners.

Elevator CE records, instructor relief, waivers

Continuing education providers must keep attendance records for at least 10 years on state forms. Approved instructors who taught a state‑approved course in the prior year can skip CE if they submit proof. A license holder with a doctor‑certified temporary disability can get a nonrenewable 90‑day CE waiver and keep working during that period.

Stricter rules for insurance prelicensing

Beginning July 1, 2027, prelicensing courses must meet minimum hours by line (for example: life 20, health 20, life & health 40, property & casualty 40, personal lines 20, title 10, annuity 4). Instructors must meet set standards and course materials must be updated at least every three years. The commissioner may withdraw certification or disqualify providers or instructors after notice and a hearing, including if a classroom provider’s passing rate is under 45%.

Bidding rules for commission contracts over $10K

Beginning July 1, 2026, the commission must publish notice for two weeks before signing contracts over $10,000. Contracts must be written and include performance bonds. Sole‑source buys are allowed but must publish item counts, unit price, and total. Contracts that ignore these rules are void.

Child care safety rules clarified

Beginning July 1, 2027, variances that conflict with state building or fire rules need approval before taking effect, but child care home variances are exempt. Renewing or changing a waiver needs approval if related state safety rules or the waiver itself change, except for child care homes and foster homes. DHS must consult on child care home licensing when asked. Child care homes may not be classified as E occupancy under new rules.

Arts and culture agencies reorganized

Effective July 1, 2026, several cultural bodies (CHLA, CSSBM, ICW, and NAIAC) move to the Indiana Cultural Commission; amounts owed after June 30, 2026 are owed to the new commission and must be deposited in the state general fund. Members’ terms end July 1, 2026. Effective July 1, 2027, the Indiana commission for arts and humanities in education transfers its agreements, property, funds, and duties to the Department of Education, and members’ terms end July 1, 2027.

Memorial staffing, hiring, and monthly accounting

Starting July 1, 2026, the commission controls Monument Circle and may hire a superintendent and staff. The superintendent must post a $5,000 bond, file a sworn monthly accounting, and turn over money to the state treasurer. These rules tighten oversight of memorial operations.

Natural resources and library boards updated

The Natural Resources Commission has 12 members, including agency leaders and six citizens named by the governor. At least two citizen members must have environmental or conservation expertise, and no more than three may be from the same party. The state library advisory council is repealed July 1, 2027.

Police academy building moves to State Police

Starting July 1, 2027, the law enforcement academy building commission’s agreements, records, property, funds, duties, rules, and cases transfer to the State Police Department. Money owed after June 30, 2027 is owed to the department, and members’ terms end July 1, 2027. The law also repeals two narrow criminal provisions tied to that commission, removing those specific crimes from the code.

Public safety advisory boards ended

The state ends several public safety and driver advisory bodies. The driver education advisory board, motorcycle program advisory board, criminal justice advisory committee, and the security and privacy council end July 1, 2027. The Law Enforcement Academy Building Commission ends July 1, 2027. The integrated public safety commission ends July 1, 2026 and its duties move to DHS.

Tougher review to keep old rules

When agencies keep an expiring rule, they must recheck its need, update cost‑benefit findings, look for cheaper options, and compare nearby states. Findings are due the first business day in July before expiration. A proposed readoption notice with a 30‑day public comment period is due the first business day in September.

War memorial ethics and commission changes

Effective July 1, 2026, it is a Level 6 felony for World War Memorial commission members or designated staff to profit from memorial‑related contracts or claims, beyond allowed pay and expense reimbursement. The law also repeals the memorial art commission statute on July 1, 2026, ending that commission.

Child care safety checks and limits

Beginning July 1, 2027, the department inspects registered child care ministries to ensure they follow building rules for the building’s main use and fire drill rules. Occupant load equals square footage divided by 35 and sets alarm, detector, or parent notice steps. The state may not require sprinklers in a living unit of a licensed child caring institution if fewer than 16 ambulatory children live there and each child is at least 6 years old.

Forensic and toxicology oversight reshaped

On July 1, 2027, the Commission on Forensic Sciences is repealed and related board roles are adjusted. The state health commissioner serves as chair and votes only to break a tie. The toxicology department can get help from more partners, including state police, the health department, and medical groups.

Stronger fire inspections and reports

Starting July 1, 2027, city fire departments must inspect public places and ways and file monthly reports to the department; non‑city departments may run inspection programs and keep written reports. Interior home inspections may occur only at the owner’s request. Some fire safety orders can be appealed to the department; certain denials under section 10 are not appealable. Boards must file final record drawings for public building projects costing $100,000 or more within 60 days of completion. Local units must submit certain service or facility agreements for state approval when a state agency controls that service; library reciprocal borrowing deals only need a copy sent to the state library.

Local bridge grant board term removed

On July 1, 2027, the law removes the definition that labeled the local bridge grant panel as the “board.” This is part of a restructure of the local bridge grant program.

Public safety system: join and buy rules

Beginning July 1, 2026, any public safety agency that uses the statewide system must sign a user agreement with the department. Before buying or changing communications systems or equipment, the department must issue an RFP, use a competitive scoring rubric, and get budget agency approval. The department may coordinate these purchases with public safety agencies.

Tippecanoe splits its innkeeper’s tax

Starting July 1, 2027, Tippecanoe County splits its innkeeper’s tax by set shares. 40% goes to the tourism commission, 10% to a community development group, 10% to Historic Prophetstown, 10% to the Wabash River group, and 20% is set by the county. Shares for the Department of Natural Resources phase down through 2032 while the county’s share phases up. An advisory commission is created, and the finance authority may issue bonds for park development.

Office for Women's Health created

Starting July 1, 2026, the state runs an Office for Women’s Health to educate, coordinate programs, and advise on women’s health. The office seeks funding, prepares materials, and files an annual report. Staff may not advocate for or promote abortion or abortifacients.

State now sets building and fire codes

Beginning July 1, 2027, the department adopts statewide building, fire, and equipment codes under state rulemaking, replacing the former commission’s role. The department may set permit, inspection, certification, and licensing fees by rule to cover costs; some fees, like design release fees, can change no more than once per year. The department also runs the Statewide Fire and Building Safety Education Fund to pay for approved training for local fire and building inspection staff and department‑sponsored training. Money in that fund does not revert at year end.

Main Street program moves to rural affairs

On July 1, 2027, the statute that created the Indiana main street council is repealed. The Office of Rural Affairs now runs the main street program. It can sign contracts, accept money, spend it for program work, and coordinate with public and private partners.

New rules for state finance boards

Beginning July 1, 2027, the state changes who serves on the bank’s board and how long they serve. Governor appointees must live in Indiana and have municipal finance or facilities expertise. A seven‑member board runs the local government investment pool, meets at least four times a year, and pays per diem and travel for non‑state members. The pool must be audited yearly, have no minimum retention period or account limit, and keep at least 50% of investable funds in qualified banks.

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Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Steve Bartels
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Aaron Freeman
Republican • Senate
Chris Garten
Republican • Senate
David Niezgodski
Democratic • Senate
Doug Miller
Republican • House
Kyle Pierce
Republican • House
Randy Maxwell
Republican • Senate
Scott Baldwin
Republican • Senate
Wendy Dant Chesser
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 296 • No: 176

House vote • 2/27/2026

Roll Call 422 on HB1003.06.ENGS.CCH001

Yes: 69 • No: 28

Senate vote • 2/27/2026

Roll Call 326 on HB1003.06.ENGS.CCS001

Yes: 43 • No: 3 • Other: 4

Senate vote • 2/24/2026

Roll Call 224 on HB1003.05.COMS

Yes: 47 • No: 1

House vote • 2/2/2026

Roll Call 188 on HB1003.04.ENGH

Yes: 67 • No: 29 • Other: 4

House vote • 1/29/2026

Roll Call 151 on HB1003.03.COMH.AMH013

Yes: 31 • No: 62 • Other: 2