Monday, January 6, marks the start of the 2020 legislative session in Indiana. There were many priorities discussed including standardized testing in public schools, increasing the vaping age to 21, in addition to healthcare costs and prescription drug prices.
In the House, Speaker Brian Bosma, R-Indianapolis, the priorities focused on education, healthcare, and the budget. House Bill 1002 eliminates the state’s requirement for student test scores to be a factor in teacher evaluations. In a separate bill, the ability for the State Board of Education to manage both teacher training requirements and recommendations for firings was granted. Also on the docket for House Republicans is limiting health care providers from charging patients with out-of-network rates for treatment in facilities that are covered by the patient’s insurance.
The House has also had a bill to increase the age for vaping from 18 to 21. The spread of vaping-related injuries and deaths in the country has put this activity in focus across the nation. In December, federal law increased the age to vape.
The House Republicans are on fire, working to fast-track many priorities that were put forth for the betterment of Indiana residents and families. Additionally, a charged approach at fiscal responsibility is a prime effort.
The Democrats led by House Minority Leader Phil GiaQuinta, D-Fort Wayne, are also gunning to get active in their goals early. The Democrats in the state’s legislature are focused on education and healthcare as well as school safety. Working on the standardized testing system, increasing teacher pay, and ensuring that charter schools and voucher programs are operating under the same standards as their public school counterparts are a few of their top concerns.
School protection is an important line item on their list. Increasing funding for officers, mental health resources for students, and expanding as well as funding statewide prekindergarten programs are some of the actions these lawmakers are proposing. Democrats in the House are also interested in reducing the price of prescription drugs and expanded access to the Healthy Indian plan, and providing funding for paid family medical leave.
The Senate Republicans’ priorities are similar to those in the House. Senate Democrats have not yet released their list of goals for 2020.
How Changes to the Law Affect Indiana Families
When lawmakers are back in session, there are many changes that can come up that affect families in the state. It is important for families to be aware of changes to laws as well as new laws proposed. The changes with testing in schools and how teachers are going to be supported or eliminated have a direct impact on families with school-aged children.
Not every family has the fortune of being a single unit but that still does not mean they should not stay abreast of changes in the government. When separation and divorce are on the table it is important to work through these changes in family dynamics in the smoothest way possible. My name is Christopher L. Arrington, P.C., and I am an Indiana collaborative divorce lawyer who can help you with your divorce.
I offer many years of experience in family law, I am here to help you through the difficult process of divorce. Call my Danville divorce law firm at 317-745-4494 today. I look forward to sitting down with you and hearing about your family’s situation.