IndianaSB 80Second Regular Session 124th General Assembly (2026)SenateWALLET

Code publication.

Sponsored By: Aaron Freeman (Republican)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

120 provisions identified: 66 benefits, 8 costs, 46 mixed.

Stricter adoption and guardianship safety rules

Beginning July 1, 2026, courts cannot grant an adoption if the petitioner is a sex offender, a violent offender, or a sexually violent predator. Courts may deny adoptions for certain juvenile records or child‑safety crimes, while some older felonies may not be automatic bars. A court may not end a guardianship at age 18 if the child was found incapacitated as a minor or received certain DCS financial help.

Insurers must cover inpatient mental health

Starting July 1, 2026, if your policy covers inpatient mental health or substance use care, the insurer cannot deny coverage when care is at a community mental health center or a state‑licensed psychiatric hospital. This applies to accident and sickness insurers that include inpatient services.

State services for children with autism

Beginning July 1, 2026, children under 21 with autism are eligible for care, services, and materials under this law, if they meet any added criteria the department sets.

State residential school for eligible kids

Beginning July 1, 2026, the state creates the Indiana Soldiers' and Sailors' Children's Home as a residential school and home. It serves Indiana children who need residential care and qualify for educational services. It gives preference to children of armed forces members and veterans' families who meet admission rules. Children who need a secure or detention placement are not eligible.

Workers’ comp for student workers

Beginning July 1, 2026, students in approved work‑based learning are covered by workers’ compensation. Unpaid students do not receive temporary disability pay, but if an unpaid student dies from a covered injury, dependents or parents get a $175,000 lump‑sum death benefit. The law also clarifies who counts as an employer and how to compute a student’s average weekly wage for workers’ comp.

Property tax help for blind or disabled

Starting July 1, 2026, if you are blind or have a qualifying disability and earned $17,000 or less last year, you can deduct up to $12,480 from your home's assessed value. This applies only to property taxes for assessment dates before 2025 and ends January 1, 2027. You can also get a $125 credit if you own (or are a recorded contract buyer of) and live in the home. File the credit claim with the county auditor by January 15 of the year taxes are first due.

Property tax break for on-site child care

Beginning July 1, 2026, employers can exempt the part of their property used for on-site, licensed child care from property tax. The center must be on the employer’s property, serve only employees’ children (or also another business’s employees by agreement), be state-licensed, and meet set standards. An employer may run the center or contract with a provider, including under federal Section 45F rules.

Stricter unemployment rules after quitting/firing

Beginning July 1, 2026, if you quit without good cause or are fired for just cause, you are ineligible until you work at least 8 weeks and earn at least 8 times your weekly benefit. Your claim’s maximum benefit then drops: to 75% after the first disqualification, 85% after the second, and 90% after the third or later, each rounded up. The law keeps exceptions, including for domestic violence and some other situations.

Stricter foster home license revocations

Effective July 1, 2026, the state can revoke a foster family license for abuse findings, certain crimes, false information, or failing to follow orders. A nonwaivable conviction requires permanent revocation. The department may weigh rehabilitation factors for other cases.

Child care aid for foster families

Beginning July 1, 2026, a household that includes a foster parent at the first income check is eligible for Child Care and Development Fund help for foster children. This opens CCDF entry to more foster families at initial determination.

Easier cash help for kin caregivers

Beginning July 1, 2026, certain money in an account does not count against you when the state checks assets for assistance under IC 12‑14. If an investigation finds a child is dependent and will live with a listed relative, the state may pay support for the child without following another Indiana law. These changes help kin caregivers qualify and receive help faster.

Help inmates get Medicaid at release

Beginning July 1, 2026, the corrections department and county sheriffs must help people with mental illness or addiction sign up for Medicaid. They can act as an authorized representative or health navigator so treatment is covered when someone is released or needs inpatient psychiatric care. In some cases, the department may keep a person in its facility up to 14 days past release to complete placement and care steps if strict conditions are met. Help must be timely so care starts at release.

One prior‑auth form and mental health parity

The department must post a single standardized prior authorization form, and Medicaid managed care plans must use it. Insurers must send the state, by December 31 each year, a report and detailed analysis showing their mental health and substance use coverage meets federal parity rules. They must explain any non‑quantitative limits and the evidence they used.

Safer child placements and DCS stays involved

Starting July 1, 2026, courts cannot approve placement in a home if someone there has a substantiated abuse finding, certain juvenile adjudications, or convictions for nonwaivable offenses. Probation officers must run criminal‑history checks, with limited exceptions. Courts may allow placement only in narrow cases when older offenses are not relevant and it is in the child’s best interest. If a court places a child in a state institution for voluntary treatment, DCS stays responsible until discharge or until an approved parent or guardian takes over.

Stronger rules for mental health services

Beginning July 1, 2026, a person who cannot live at home due to mental illness may enter residential care if funding is available. Within 30 days, the facility and local mental health team must create a full care plan and identify an alternate placement. The law also defines community and home care services, including homemaker help, adult day care, meals, transport, home health, equipment, home changes to avoid institutions, and dementia caregiver support. The state must contract with approved developmental disability centers, using legal definitions to decide who qualifies, paying rates set by rule, and cutting funds if a center breaks the contract.

Aid program rules for low‑income students

Starting July 1, 2026, to enter the commission’s program, a student generally must live in Indiana, be in grade 7 or 8, and be in a household at or below the free or reduced‑price lunch income level for the prior year. The student must meet behavior rules, apply on time, reach required GPAs, and complete any required success programming to stay eligible.

State helps cover excess special‑ed costs

Beginning July 1, 2026, the state may pay the excess cost of educating eligible students whose disabilities prevent success in the local public school, above what the district must pay. The state board will set rules. Money set aside for this does not revert.

Faster DCS addresses and placement reviews

Starting July 1, 2026, the Office of the Secretary must give DCS needed address information right away to respond to abuse or neglect reports or urgent cases. DCS must also create a permanency roundtable and a residential placement committee to review plans and certain placements and make recommendations to the court.

Faster permanency and stronger court tools

If a removed child has been under supervision for 15 of the last 22 months, a termination petition must be filed. If it is not filed, a foster parent, relative, or de facto custodian with 6+ months of care can file a notice and the court must set a hearing within 30 days. If a CASA or guardian ad litem files a petition, the department is joined. Motions to dismiss are allowed for listed reasons, and foster parents are protected from license action for filing the notice. The department attorney, CASA, or guardian ad litem can also ask the court to order a person to stop contact with a child or foster family member.

Harsher rules on false reports, contraband

Beginning July 1, 2026, making false reports about explosives, product tampering, or weapons of mass destruction is a Level 6 felony. Other false reports carry higher penalties if they hinder police, cause harm, terrorize, or lead to serious injury or death. Bringing contraband into jails or juvenile facilities, including by drone, is a crime. It is a Level 5 felony if the item is drugs, a weapon, a chemical intoxicant, or a cellphone, and fines can reach $10,000 for phones.

Higher penalties for drug dealing near kids

Starting July 1, 2026, extra factors can raise drug‑dealing sentences. These include having a firearm, dealing near schools or certain parks, selling to a person under 18 at least three years younger, making the drug, committing the offense near a child, on jail property, or near some treatment or recovery group locations.

Kin-first placements and safety checks

The law puts relatives first when a child needs placement. The department must notify adult relatives and siblings within 30 days, do a home visit, and run criminal checks on people living in the home. Courts and the department cannot place a child, approve a plan, or reunify a child where a resident has a substantiated abuse finding or a disqualifying crime, except in rare older-offense cases a court approves. Predispositional and probation reports must list all options considered and include criminal check results. The department stays responsible for the child’s care until a parent, guardian, or other responsible person formally takes over.

More checks on offenders and acquittals

Beginning July 1, 2026, police must contact every registered sex or violent offender at least once a year, and every sexually violent predator at least every 90 days, and make in‑person visits on the same schedule. If someone does not seem to live at the listed address, police must tell the state and the prosecutor right away. After an insanity acquittal, the prosecutor must seek involuntary commitment, the court must hold the hearing, and required information must go to the federal background check system (NICS).

Tougher penalties for assaults and abuse

Beginning July 1, 2026, rude or angry touching and placing bodily fluids or waste on someone can be battery, with penalties that rise up to serious felonies based on injury, victim, and weapons. Adults in listed roles, like guardians, child care workers, coaches, or mental health professionals, may not have sex with or fondle anyone under 18. Penalties range from Level 6 to Level 2 felonies, with some age‑difference rules and a narrow exception for a preexisting dating relationship with a workplace supervisor.

Uniform police training across Indiana

From July 1, 2026, the state board sets uniform police policies and minimum training all agencies must follow. Training must cover deadly force, defensive tactics, pursuits, fitness, and diversity, plus at least six hours on autism, mental illness, developmental disabilities, or Alzheimer’s. A two‑thirds board vote is needed to change an adopted policy.

Stronger protections from unfair sales and repairs

The law bans unfair, abusive, or deceptive acts in consumer sales and services. It bars false approval claims, mislabeling items as new, fake delivery or price claims, and selling recalled products. Repair shops must give a written, itemized estimate before work. If the bill will be over the estimate by more than 10% or more than $750, they must tell you and get your OK. They must keep replaced parts at least 72 hours after notice and cannot do unauthorized repairs. Limited defenses apply for bona fide error or good‑faith reliance, and directories have narrow immunity for listings.

State sets and pays prosecutor salaries

Beginning July 1, 2026, a full‑time prosecuting attorney’s minimum state‑paid salary equals the circuit court judge’s minimum. Other prosecutors get at least 60%, or 66% in certain circuits. Each prosecutor may appoint a chief deputy paid up to 75% of the prosecutor’s salary. In counties with large state institutions, the prosecutor may add up to two more deputies. The state pays these salaries from the general fund; counties may add extra pay.

Temporary status IDs must be physical

Beginning July 1, 2026, people with temporary lawful status get a physical ID card clearly marked as temporary. You cannot renew it unless you show documents that your temporary status was extended. Examples include a nonimmigrant visa, pending asylum, temporary protected status, deferred action, or a pending green card application.

Stricter TANF work and paternity rules

Beginning July 1, 2026, TANF applicants who are IMPACT‑mandatory must show job‑search proof after applying: at least 6 employer contacts and 3 job applications or resumes. Approved participants must take part in IMPACT; the state may suspend these rules in areas with very high unemployment or too few jobs. A child and parent are not eligible for TANF unless the mother starts or cooperates in paternity steps, unless an exemption applies for safety or other listed reasons. If separated parents have no support order, the other parent must work with the Title IV‑D agency to get one. For children born out of wedlock, the mother must cooperate to establish paternity and a support order. Nonparent guardians must make a good‑faith effort by answering calls, appearing when scheduled, or giving known information.

Tighter bail for violent felony arrests

Starting January 1, 2027, people arrested for a violent Level 1–5 felony can be released only after a public court hearing. The judge must set money bail payable by surety bond or cash. Charitable bail groups cannot pay this bail for these arrestees.

Tighter conflict rules for public workers

Starting July 1, 2026, it is a Level 6 felony for a public servant to profit from a contract tied to their official action. The worker must file a sworn disclosure at a public meeting before final action and then file it within 15 days after. The law lists exceptions and allows an annual statement for recurring purchases.

State career coaching system repealed

Effective July 1, 2026, the statewide career navigation and coaching system requirement is repealed. This reduces state‑supported career services that schools and families could use.

Faster paternity records and child support

Starting July 1, 2026, the person attending a live birth must file the birth certificate and any paternity affidavit in the state system. A paternity affidavit must be filed within five days, and adoption-related paternity record requests get a response within ten days. If you are behind on child support, you cannot use a property disclaimer to block collection up to the amount you owe.

Safer family preservation placements

Starting July 1, 2026, a child cannot be placed temporarily in a home through family preservation services if a resident has a substantiated abuse finding, a juvenile adjudication, or a nonwaivable conviction. A juvenile court may allow the placement after review.

State drops definition of foster youth

On July 1, 2026, the state removes the old definition of “foster youth” that set the age at 15 to 23. Programs or rules that used that age range may change who qualifies after that date.

Stronger checks for adoptions and placements

Beginning July 1, 2026, a child cannot be placed in an adoptive home without written approval and criminal checks of the adoptive parent and everyone living in the home. Anyone filing to adopt must provide what is needed for a criminal history check. You usually pay the check fees, but the department may pay if you adopt a child in its care. If you had a statute‑compliant check within the past year, you do not need a new one. Before an emergency out‑of‑home placement, the department must run criminal checks, unless the placement is in a licensed program or a non‑residential entity.

Utility bill add‑on increases capped at 10%

Beginning July 1, 2026, a utility’s total recovery through adjustment riders is capped at 10% of its base revenue over any 12 months. The cap does not include costs for relocating or adding utility lines due to highway, street, or road projects, or related property taxes. The law also clarifies which water and sewer projects count as eligible improvements for recovery. It excludes projects that add new customers and sets rules to avoid double‑recovery in rates.

Mental health record sharing and consent

Beginning July 1, 2026, providers can share mental health records without consent in many care, court, and safety situations. Psychiatric crisis centers, inpatient units, and residential programs must share a patient’s standard safety plan with licensed responders who ask and protect it. People who share in good faith have legal immunity. At the same time, a provider may use one consent to cover your stay or outpatient care at a covered hospital or clinic.

Tougher rules for child care providers

Effective July 1, 2026, the state may deny or revoke licenses or registrations for child care centers, homes, and ministries based on abuse findings, listed criminal convictions, false statements, unlicensed operation, or failing to follow orders. If the issue is an employee or volunteer’s conviction and that person is dismissed or not a household member (for homes), the agency does not have to deny or revoke.

Arbitrators can divide post‑divorce payments

Starting July 1, 2026, a family law arbitrator must divide property in a fair way and follow state law. The arbitrator may also set aside a share of benefit payments that are paid after the divorce and divide them when received or by assignment. This can change how money is split between former spouses.

Per‑pound aircraft tax and sale credit

Starting July 1, 2026, taxable aircraft are put into classes and taxed per pound by class and age. For example, a newer piston‑driven plane can be taxed at $0.04 per pound and a newer turbine at $0.09 per pound. If you sell an aircraft, you can claim a nonrefundable credit equal to the excise tax you paid times the lesser of 90% or 10% times the months left in the registration year. You can use the credit against tax on another aircraft that year.

Easier home child care; small‑facility pilot

Beginning July 1, 2026, cities and towns cannot keep a child care home out of a neighborhood just because it is a business. Local child limits must match state limits. A city can still require the same zoning, development, and building rules that apply to other homes nearby. The state also runs a pilot for micro child care facilities, granting cost‑saving waivers to at least three licensees in shortage areas. Any waiver ends by the set date or by December 31, 2027.

New rules and penalties for child-care homes

Beginning July 1, 2026, the state tightens licensing and safety rules for child‑care homes and ministries. Class I applicants must show a high school diploma or equivalency, finish safe sleep training, and complete or agree to complete a CDA or approved program within 3 years (waivers allowed). A Class I home may serve up to 3 school‑age children if it has at least 35 square feet per child, keeps required staff ratios, and has lit exit signs or emergency lighting. Licenses must show Class I or II; over‑capacity or failing Class II rules can bring sanctions, civil fines, and criminal penalties. The state may revoke for abuse findings, certain convictions, false statements, prior unlicensed operation, or ignoring a homeland security order. If the disqualifying person was dismissed or left the household, revocation may not be required.

New rules for highway contracting

Starting July 1, 2026, a new DOT definitions chapter standardizes key terms. The law defines which projects can use two‑phase CMGC or progressive design‑build, and excludes commuter district passenger rail. It limits the chapter to state highway system projects and excludes projects let under IC 8‑23‑11. Contractors must be qualified for highway public works unless the contract is under $300,000 and the local unit follows IC 36‑1‑12. This applies to contracts awarded after December 31, 2016.

Tougher child‑care licensing and checks

Beginning July 1, 2026, child‑caring institutions and group homes must run criminal checks for managers, staff, volunteers, and contractors who could be alone with children. Limited provisional work is allowed only after fingerprint, sex‑offender, in‑state local record, and child‑protection index checks and sworn statements; duties are limited to training until full checks finish. Applicants or facilities pay the check fees. The department runs licensing, keeps a directory, deposits license fees in the child services fund, and may grant waivers or variances when an alternative method is safe; no waivers go to people with nonwaivable offense convictions.

Child welfare courts and terms updated

Starting July 1, 2026, guardian ad litem (GAL) and CASA programs and their staff are immune from civil suits when a court appoints them and a child is wait‑listed due to caseload, unless they acted with gross negligence or willful misconduct. The law removes the definitions for “child welfare agency” and “screened out” abuse or neglect reports. Courts may allow community mental health centers, managed care providers, or other court‑approved people to run the family relations division.

Civil rights definitions clarified

On July 1, 2026, the law updates civil‑rights terms like person, employer, discriminatory practice, and public accommodation. It lists protected traits such as race, religion, sex, disability, national origin, ancestry, and veteran status, and notes some exemptions. This clarifies who is protected and who must follow the law.

Crime-of-violence list and caps reset

On July 1, 2026, the law updates which crimes count as a crime of violence, listing offenses like murder, felony battery, kidnapping, certain sex crimes, burglary, arson, robbery, and some firearms crimes. It also resets how maximum consecutive prison terms are capped for an episode of criminal conduct, such as 42 years for a Level 1 felony and 1 year for a Class C misdemeanor.

Faster alerts, tighter child care licensing

Beginning July 1, 2026, the state may tell a child care worker’s employer when a new substantiated abuse or neglect report names that worker. If the worker’s unsupervised contact could endanger a child, the employer must be told within two business days. The law also lists clear reasons to deny a child care license, including proven abuse or neglect, certain crimes, false statements, operating without a license, some juvenile felonies, or a revocation in the last year.

Mental health exams and competency timelines

Beginning July 1, 2026, courts must get a mental health evaluation before sentencing someone found guilty but mentally ill. Courts appoint qualified examiners for competency hearings and the state must provide restoration services in the least restrictive setting. The law defines when someone is “dangerous” for commitment, adds a 90‑day restoration progress certification, and starts commitment if restoration fails after six months. When competency is restored, the court must promptly order the defendant returned for trial.

Mental health terms and cross-refs updated

Effective July 1, 2026, the law removes the definition of “gravely disabled” used for involuntary mental‑health commitment. It also updates chapters to use the new IC 12‑7‑2.1 term list and ties “qualified medical personnel” to the listed definition. These changes can shift how eligibility and duties are read in mental‑health and human‑services laws.

New sentencing factors and victim programs

Effective July 1, 2026, judges get a clear list of aggravating and mitigating facts they may use at sentencing, including severe victim harm, victim age, prior supervision violations, caregiver status, threats, bias, and more. To qualify, a victim impact program must be offered in the county, include at least one listed speaker, and require a supervised visit to a listed medical, coroner, or alcoholism treatment facility.

State handles national background checks

Beginning July 1, 2026, the state department is the authorized agency for national FBI background checks. Employers, volunteer groups, and licensing bodies must submit requests, fingerprints, and fees in the required form. For jobs and volunteers, the check is generally requested within three months of the start date. The department sends prints to the FBI, shares results, and may retain fingerprints.

Stronger sex offender registration rules

Beginning July 1, 2026, the law updates who must register as a sex or violent offender, including many listed crimes and some juveniles who meet court criteria. People who live, work, or study in a county must register there within set timelines. Law enforcement must post photos online, update records, and notify agencies quickly. Facilities and probation must inform offenders of duties before release and send records within 72 hours after release.

Stricter rules for child‑care and placement agencies

Child placing agencies and related providers face stronger screening and staffing rules. Fingerprint and national checks, state child protection checks, and out‑of‑state checks (if lived elsewhere in 5 years) are required; applicants pay the fees. Limited training work is allowed only with no child contact while final checks are pending. Licenses can be denied or revoked for proven abuse or neglect, certain crimes, false records, or prior unlicensed operation. Agency leaders and caseworkers must meet set education and experience standards. Reckless supervision by any child‑care provider is now a crime, with higher penalties if a child is seriously hurt or dies. The law clarifies which facilities count as child services providers.

Local tax councils and distributions change

The law updates how certified shares are split among local units. It uses last year’s taxes, subtracts certain debt payments, and applies special multipliers. For 2027–2028, qualifying municipalities use 70% at a key step. For 2026 only, a 54.5% clause applies and ends January 1, 2027. It also repeals local income tax council voting and ordinance procedures on July 1, 2028, repeals a named local tax section on July 1, 2027, and ends supplemental county trust distributions on January 1, 2028.

Clear juvenile competency and placement checks

Beginning July 1, 2026, a child is competent if they can understand the case and help their defense right now. Also, DCS staff, caseworkers, and juvenile probation officers can access juvenile court records without a court order when running criminal checks to decide if an out‑of‑home placement is appropriate.

Fishing license exemptions updated

Starting July 1, 2026, some people do not need a fishing license. Exempt groups include Indiana residents born before April 1, 1943, people under 18, legally blind people, certain institutional residents, some residents with developmental disabilities and their assistants, and people fishing on free days. Anglers must carry a license when required and must have a trout‑salmon stamp when fishing for those species in listed waters.

Free entry for foster and Gold Star families

Beginning July 1, 2026, the department does not charge admission on its properties to licensed foster families who reside together, foster youth, hospital inpatients and their supervisors, and Gold Star family members who show required ID.

Makeup parenting time for Guard parents

Beginning July 1, 2026, a noncustodial Indiana National Guard or reserve member who misses parenting time for required duty may make up the time. The member must give at least seven days’ notice unless a government emergency prevents it. Makeup time must be within one month and cannot conflict with school.

Parents can delegate child care

A parent or guardian can give another adult a power of attorney to make health, support, custody, or property decisions for a child for up to 12 months. Military parents on active or reserve duty can delegate through the term of duty plus 30 days. The power cannot allow consent to marriage or adoption or let the person file for divorce for the child. The parent remains responsible. This is not a foster care placement.

Easier access to disabled parking placards

Starting July 1, 2026, if a listed provider certifies your disability is permanent, the bureau issues a permanent placard. It stays valid until a provider says the disability is no longer permanent. If your disability is temporary, you get a temporary placard that expires on the end date in your certification or one year after issue, whichever is first. Veterans who have or qualify for a disabled Hoosier veteran plate can also request a placard.

Easier proof of foster youth status

The department can certify that a person meets the foster youth definition for benefits under the cited law. This helps people quickly show eligibility for programs tied to foster youth status.

Free shaken baby safety materials

Beginning July 1, 2026, hospitals must give parents of newborns free, easy‑to‑understand materials on shaken baby syndrome and other hazards at discharge. Child‑care providers get the same materials when they apply for a license or during inspections.

Older drug program participation preserved

Beginning July 1, 2026, people who began an alcohol and drug services program before July 1, 2002, only because of an infraction can keep participating until they finish or are removed for a violation.

Simpler Medicaid paperwork for mental health

Starting July 1, 2026, community mental health centers do not need notes finished at the visit when those notes are part of an ongoing plan. Providers must complete records within 30 days before billing Medicaid. Supervisors can review and sign every 90 days, even if remote. Treatment plans must show client consent and participation.

Every student needs a graduation plan

Effective July 1, 2026, each student must create a graduation plan by the end of 8th grade with a counselor and after parents are consulted. The plan lists courses, goals, and exams the student plans to take. It becomes part of the permanent record and is available to parents.

Foster youth get college aid guidance

Starting July 1, 2026, caseworkers must give eligible foster students information about state programs, Pell and Chafee grants, federal supplemental grants, the FAFSA, and individual development accounts. Students must sign that they got the information, and it goes in the case file. Caseworkers must also give each foster parent information about individual development accounts.

Pay for work‑related property damage

Starting July 1, 2026, a warden may reimburse an employee for personal property damaged in the ordinary course of work at a state penal, correctional, or other state institution, if the employee was not negligent.

Police and fire exam costs split

Beginning July 1, 2026, your employer pays at least half the cost of the required baseline physical and mental exams after a conditional job offer. The system board must set job‑related exam standards and review them every five years. Local boards set passing standards for the mental exam and can choose local administrators.

Schools must run truancy prevention plans

Beginning July 1, 2026, schools must notify parents right away when a student is absent. They must hold an attendance conference and create a plan that lasts no more than 45 instructional days. Schools must offer extra help when absences relate to pregnancy, foster care, homelessness, or severe illness.

Schools pay for secure facility education

From July 1, 2026, if a student is admitted to a secure private facility by a doctor’s order, the facility must notify the school within five business days. The school must pay a daily rate based on the student’s share of state tuition and special education money, up to 180 instructional days and not over the student’s share. The school must pay invoices within 60 days, and the facility must provide comparable education.

Yearly health plan audit rights for employers

Beginning July 1, 2026, a plan sponsor can request one audit each year of its third-party administrator, managed care group, or prepaid plan. The auditor must get full claims and payment data in standard formats, and the data must be delivered within 15 business days. The third party cannot charge audit request or auditor-selection fees and may not add contract terms that block these rights. Contracts entered, issued, amended, or renewed after June 30, 2024 cannot include terms that violate these rights.

Faster confined feeding approvals for farms

Starting July 1, 2026, the department must decide on confined feeding approvals within 90 days of a complete application unless you agree to more time. If the 90‑day deadline is missed, you may get a refund of the application fee while review continues. The 90‑day clock can pause if the agency mails a notice within 30 days that the application is incomplete.

Faster action for high risk missing people

Starting July 1, 2026, the law broadens who counts as a high‑risk missing person, including those under 21, people missing 30 days or more, people needing medicine, and endangered adults and veterans at risk. Police must also follow specific state rules when a child under 18, an endangered adult, or a veteran at risk is reported missing. This helps agencies act and alert the public faster.

Free state background checks for schools

Beginning July 1, 2026, the state may not charge a fee for a limited criminal history when the requester is a qualifying nonprofit (10+ years old), child services or family resources for listed checks, a state agency or the professional licensing agency using the gateway, a qualifying church for staff or adult volunteers, or K‑12 schools and some nonpublic schools for employees or adult volunteers. Schools of education may request checks for students in field or classroom work, but the student may be charged.

More help for trafficked children

A child under 18 who is a victim of human or sexual trafficking is a child in need of services if they need care they are not getting, even if they appeared to consent. Courts can order services and care. The law also removes an older trafficking‑victim definition to align with updated terms.

More voice and privacy in juvenile cases

From July 1, 2026, statements a child makes to a juvenile evaluator usually cannot be used to prove a crime. Caregivers and licensed agency reps may attend a child’s hearings from start to finish, and qualified foster or kin caregivers may ask to intervene. Courts may run voluntary prevention programs for at‑risk kids with strict confidentiality and staff background checks.

New child‑welfare task force and training

Effective July 1, 2026, a 22‑member child‑welfare task force is created. The law defines who can serve as a guardian ad litem and requires training like that for court‑appointed special advocates, plus federal topics in some cases. It also defines who is a hard‑to‑place child for placement decisions.

Road and trail terms clarified

On July 1, 2026, the law defines recreational trails for the state trails program and makes highway and transportation plan terms match other statutes. Trails include paths for biking, hiking, running, and riding animals or vehicles, and do not include roads or streets.

Sex offenders barred from schools, kids’ venues

A serious sex offender commits a Level 6 felony by knowingly entering school property or places aimed at children under 18. A narrow defense applies for worship or religious instruction at set times when a church is on school property.

Special hunting card for disabilities

People who meet disability criteria can get a special hunting safety card. Cardholders must complete a hunter education course, hold a valid license, follow hunting rules, and be with a licensed adult. One adult may accompany at most two cardholders at a time.

Uniformed services term updated in law

On July 1, 2026, the state deletes an old definition and sets a new one for “uniformed services.” It lists the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Space Force, and the commissioned corps of the Public Health Service and NOAA. Laws that use this term follow this list.

Voluntary recycling activity reporting

People and businesses that are not required to file can voluntarily report their yearly recycling activity. The commissioner may include these reports in public annual summaries.

Youth sentencing option: private facility care

A judge may recommend placing a person who was under 16 at sentencing in a secure private facility for treatment before DOC assignment. When the person turns 21 or the placement ends, DOC resumes custody to finish the sentence. The person can earn educational and good‑time credit, subject to DOC rules.

Child protection records: access and updates

The law limits who may see child protection index records and requires clear procedures. Law enforcement, courts, and some agencies may access records for set reasons. Child‑care providers can view records naming a worker or resident only with that person’s written consent. The department must send a confidential update to the reporting entity within 45 days after starting an assessment. The law defines who counts as a child‑care provider for these index rules.

Clearer notice and appeal on state orders

More agency orders must include clear notice, who is affected, and how to ask for review. Covered orders include safety orders, sanctions, some Medicaid reimbursement and audit decisions, and certain license actions. These orders generally take effect 15 days after service unless a law or the agency sets another date.

Privacy for juvenile mental health talks

Statements a juvenile makes to a court‑ordered or voluntary evaluator during mental health checks usually cannot be used to prove the child committed a crime. Exceptions apply for probation revocation, dispositional changes, or if the child raises an insanity defense. Required safety reporting rules still apply.

Some food pantries exempt from state rules

Beginning July 1, 2026, certain 501(c)(3) food pantries that hand out food directly to people are not covered by the food chapter. Food banks that distribute donated food to other groups remain covered. Hospitals, health facilities, and other listed institutions are also outside the chapter.

State pays expenses for key institutions

From July 1, 2026, the state may draw warrants to pay current expenses for psychiatric hospitals, the Indiana School for the Deaf, the School for the Blind and Visually Impaired, the Indiana Veterans' Home, and the Plainfield Juvenile Correctional Facility.

Lake County funding for residential programs

Beginning July 1, 2026, Lake County may fund each community mental health center up to 0.752 times a set base amount. Money must be used to lease, buy, build, or operate community residential program facilities. Any levy increase beyond limits needs state division approval.

Stronger behavioral health and 9-8-8 response

Beginning July 1, 2026, the state reorganizes mental health and addiction oversight and sets rules for licensing and certification. Mobile crisis teams for 9‑8‑8 must be certified, include a certified peer and at least one behavioral health or emergency responder, and be supervised by licensed clinicians (remote supervision allowed). The state also sets service areas, training, and data efforts.

Who counts as a health care provider

The law lists which professionals qualify as a health care provider in family and juvenile matters. It includes doctors, nurses, dentists, mental health workers, EMTs, pharmacists, and similar staff, and those acting under their direction.

Who counts as health providers and volunteers

Starting July 1, 2026, the law clarifies who is a mental health service provider and who is a professional health care provider or professional staff for civil liability rules. It also defines approved volunteer workers at state institutions and extends medical benefits under the chapter to those volunteers.

Local limits on short‑term rentals narrowed

Beginning July 1, 2026, cities and towns can limit short‑term rentals only for specific reasons. These include safety rules, zoning and nuisance, sex‑offender and drug or adult‑use bans, conservancy districts, and an emergency contact rule. Local enforcement must match how similar non‑rental homes are treated.

College campus boards refocused on jobs

Beginning July 1, 2026, campus boards must have at least seven members, including industry, labor, and education voices and a nonvoting regional representative. Boards must analyze local workforce needs, align programs, review budgets and building use, and advise the state board before capital requests.

Broader financing eligibility for health facilities

Starting July 1, 2026, more facilities and property qualify for authority financing. The law includes residential care sites and licensed child caring institutions. Some out‑of‑state providers can qualify if they are in an obligated group with an Indiana provider and the financing involves Indiana facilities.

Counties pay for patient clothing

From July 1, 2026, state institutions must bill the county for clothing given to a patient admitted from that county. The bill follows the chapter’s rules for making the claim.

Hospitals: sepsis care rules and data reporting

Beginning July 1, 2026, most hospitals must adopt and keep evidence‑based sepsis guidelines for adults. Starting January 1, 2027, hospitals must submit patient‑level inpatient and outpatient discharge data each quarter within 120 days and by October 1 after the hospital’s fiscal year. When Medicaid is the payor, hospitals must also report the ID used at admission.

New rules for state IDs and permits

Beginning July 1, 2026, state ID cards match driver’s licenses in size and must show key data and a photo. You may use the attorney general’s substitute address on your ID if you are in the address confidentiality program. You can choose to add a medical condition marker on your ID. The bureau will add a motor driven cycle endorsement to your ID if you apply and pass the test. For minors, an eligible adult must sign the permit or license application and show valid ID.

School buses for disability programs

Starting July 1, 2026, schools may contract to use school or special‑purpose buses to take people with developmental disabilities (age two or older) to programs that serve them. Extra transport costs are paid by the riders or by the serving agency, unless a law says otherwise.

School cell phone limits with exceptions

By July 1, 2026, schools must adopt a policy that mostly bans personal wireless devices during class and the school day. Teachers can allow school devices for lessons, and emergency or health uses are allowed. Small audio recorders for individual notes are allowed if visible and limited to sound. The option to use school‑sanctioned devices for lessons ends July 1, 2028.

Counties need boards for corrections aid

To get state community corrections funding, a county must create an advisory board with listed members. The county provides support and uses grants, user fees, and plan funds unless it chooses to add local money. Intercounty boards are allowed.

Criminal code definitions updated

The law broadens who counts as a health care provider under certain criminal rules. It also clarifies which definition of “sexual conduct” applies in different criminal statutes. Courts and investigators must use these updated meanings.

Family and juvenile definitions updated

The law replaces the Title 31 definitions chapter with a new one and removes some older terms. It repeals the prior legal meanings for “near fatality” and “reunification services.” Courts and agencies now use the updated terms in family and juvenile cases.

Highway signs and temporary truck limits

Starting July 1, 2026, the state must make federal‑law agreements about billboards, signs, junkyards, and scrap yards near highways. If federal funds are at risk over the state’s “unzoned” definition, the governor must change it and take part in the hearing. The law also lets localities and INDOT post up to 90‑day vehicle or weight limits to protect roads, after signs go up, and clarifies coverage for parts of interstates and U.S. routes. Localities cannot ban buses 45 feet or shorter on certain older primary roads.

Human services definitions moved

The human services definitions chapter is repealed and key terms are relocated. The law now uses the moved definition of “developmental disability.” Agencies and programs rely on the new locations for meanings.

Lake County convention center reserve fund

Upon passage, a reserve fund is created for the Lake County convention and event center. It covers additions, refurbishing, shortfalls, or other unusual costs. It is funded by transfers and contributions and run by county commissioners until an authority is formed.

State institution rules and land takings

Effective July 1, 2026, the law updates which facilities count as state institutions and which agencies the chapter covers. Agencies may use eminent domain for state institutions only with the governor’s written approval. Audit and reporting definitions are updated to include state institutions.

Unified human services definitions chapter

Starting July 1, 2026, a new chapter sets shared definitions for many human services terms used across agencies. This standardizes how programs use key words like assisted living services, attendant care, and crisis response centers.

Clearer definitions for hospitals and health plans

Effective July 1, 2026, the law clarifies what counts as a hospital for different chapters and lists excluded facility types. It also defines which insurance policies, HMOs, self‑insured programs, Medicare, Medicaid, PBMs, ERISA plans, and others count as health plans or payers for reporting and oversight. The chapter adopts a standard definition for “insurer.”

New Medicaid assessment on disability facilities

Beginning July 1, 2026, non‑state residential facilities for developmental disabilities may be charged up to 10% of prior‑year revenue. Payments are due monthly by the 10th, and the state may withhold Medicaid payments for nonpayment. Money goes to a special fund for services that get federal Medicaid matching. If federal matching stops, the assessment ends.

Updated mental health terms and rules

Starting July 1, 2026, the law narrows which patients are covered by state transfer and discharge rules to those leaving state mental health institutions and excludes several listed groups. It also updates definitions for medication‑assisted treatment, mental health facilities, and the superintendent term to align with new code sections.

New annexation paths for big subdivisions

Beginning July 1, 2026, certain cities and towns can annex entire residential developments that meet set tests. The development must have a homeowners association and at least 300 lots for third‑class cities or 500 lots for the named towns. It must be within 4.5 miles, include or plan a commercial area, and connect to city water or sewer as required. An HOA board may petition for annexation unless its rules forbid it. The city must start the process within 60 days, share fiscal plans, and hold hearings with set timelines. In Liberty Township (Hendricks County), a housing TIF needs approval by the Mill Creek School Corporation.

Zoning rules for children’s homes

Beginning July 1, 2026, local zoning cannot block improvements to certain long‑standing children's homes just because they are businesses or the residents are unrelated. This applies to homes caring for 11 or more children that operated in a residential area on January 1, 1992. These homes must still meet the same local codes as nearby houses and must follow any deed restrictions that already applied to the land before they owned or used it.

Insurance code aligns work‑learning term

The insurance code now points to the current legal meaning of “work‑based learning program.” This keeps insurance rules in step with updated education terms.

Old work‑based learning law repealed

On July 1, 2026, the prior work‑based learning chapter is repealed. Schools and employers must follow the new chapter added by this act.

Higher-calcium foods in state meals

From July 1, 2026, government buyers and their contractors must prefer foods and drinks with more calcium when the price is the same or lower. A state institution director may exempt a purchase if it would interfere with a patient’s treatment. This works alongside federal school meal rules.

Updated transportation project definitions

Beginning July 1, 2026, the law updates what counts as a transportation project, covering parts of tollways, roads, bridges, and rail systems, and related costs. Passenger rail run by commuter districts is excluded. The old definitions chapter is repealed and replaced with new terms.

Procurement rules narrowed for some projects

Highway‑system road work and railroad projects are no longer treated as public works projects under this chapter. The procurement chapter now applies only to state institutions, state prison facilities, and political subdivisions. Contractors on excluded projects may follow different bid and contract rules.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Aaron Freeman
Republican • Senate

Cosponsors

Greg Taylor
Democratic • Senate
Karen Engleman
Republican • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 280 • No: 1

Senate vote • 2/27/2026

Roll Call 333 on SB0080.03.COMH.CCS001

Yes: 46 • No: 1 • Other: 3

House vote • 2/27/2026

Roll Call 432 on SB0080.03.COMH.CCH001

Yes: 92 • No: 0

House vote • 2/9/2026

Roll Call 208 on SB0080.03.COMH

Yes: 94 • No: 0 • Other: 2

Senate vote • 1/8/2026

Roll Call 15 on SB0080.02.COMS

Yes: 48 • No: 0

Actions Timeline

Signed by the Governor
3/12/2026Senate
Public Law 145
3/12/2026Senate
Signed by the President of the Senate
3/6/2026Senate
Signed by the President Pro Tempore
3/5/2026Senate
Signed by the Speaker
3/3/2026House
CCR # 1 filed in the House
2/27/2026House
Rules Suspended. Conference Committee Report 1: adopted by the Senate; Roll Call 333: yeas 46, nays 1
2/27/2026Senate
CCR # 1 filed in the Senate
2/27/2026Senate
Rules Suspended. Conference Committee Report 1: adopted by the House; Roll Call 432: yeas 92, nays 0
2/27/2026House
Senate advisors appointed: Randolph Lonnie M, Alexander
2/19/2026Senate
Senate conferees appointed: Freeman, Taylor G
2/19/2026Senate
House advisors appointed: Meltzer, Burton
2/19/2026House
House conferees appointed: Engleman, Garcia Wilburn
2/19/2026House
Senate dissented from House amendments
2/19/2026Senate
Motion to dissent filed
2/18/2026Senate
Returned to the Senate with amendments
2/10/2026House
Third reading: passed; Roll Call 208: yeas 94, nays 0
2/9/2026House
Second reading: ordered engrossed
2/5/2026House
Committee report: amend do pass, adopted
2/3/2026House
First reading: referred to Committee on Judiciary
1/20/2026House
Referred to the House
1/9/2026Senate
Third reading: passed; Roll Call 15: yeas 48, nays 0
1/8/2026Senate
House sponsor: Representative Engleman
1/8/2026Senate
Second reading: ordered engrossed
1/6/2026Senate
Committee report: do pass, adopted
12/10/2025Senate

Bill Text

Enrolled Senate Bill (S)
PDF
Introduced Senate Bill (S)
PDF
Senate Bill (H)
PDF
Senate Bill (S)
PDF

Related Bills

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