INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana lawmakers are done with their work at the Statehouse for the year. Governor Mike Braun spoke about the 2026 legislative session and what he views as the key bills the general assembly passed on Monday afternoon.
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"We've been putting more money in the pockets of Hoosiers by focusing on keeping regulations and taxes low," Governor Braun said.
The governor said lawmakers got a lot done this session, focusing on his priorities, which he calls "kitchen table issues," including affordability, public safety and improving education.
Affordability
Braun specifically mentioned bills aimed at affordability, like one that aims to modernize how Indiana regulates electric utilities and rates.
The governor referenced data centers, saying that big tech companies need to be prepared to pay if they plan to come here.
"Doesn't make any difference if it's BlackRock or anyone else, they're playing by the same rules. And if you're coming into the state to build a data center, you're paying for it. And you better be putting electricity onto the grid," Braun said.
As for taxes, the governor says the general assembly finally advanced a bill he brought to the table last year.
"Qualifying Hoosiers will now pay no tax on tips or taxes on overtime. That's good news for jobs and wages. Our jobs and wage strategy is delivering strong results," Braun said.
Public Safety
Braun focused a portion of the presentation on a bill tightening requirements for commercial driver's licenses. It requires CDL tests to be taken in English, and makes it a felony to use false documents to obtain a license.
The state says it has started to remove hundreds of illegally licensed drivers from the road.
"We now have a bill that directs the BMV to revoke non-domiciled CDLs and to consult with DHS to identify the individuals that this applies to. Indiana's code to revoke these CDLs issued to individuals who no longer have legal status is probably one of the first in the country - and now we have a bill that will do it," Braun said.
Improving Education
Braun touted a bill banning cell phone use in schools as one of the biggest wins this year.
"Parents overwhelmingly for it. That ban not only reinforces student focus in the classroom, but also social presence in the lunchroom, hallway," he said.
To add to that win, the governor was pleased about passing a bill that puts safeguards in place from strangers and addictive features protecting kids from the harms of social media. He said the bill was motivated by the disappearance and death of Fishers teen Hailey Buzbee.
"We took real action where others are probably going to follow suit. Proud of what we accomplished," he added.
The governor believes the legislation will help parents protect their kids from big tech.
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