Indiana Senate Republicans reveal draft of inflation legislation

By: Jazlyn Gomez

INDIANAPOLIS — A bill outlining the future of inflation in Indiana has been drafted and released by the Indiana Senate Republicans.

The bill was authored by Senator Travis Holdman (R — District 19) and addresses specific tax rates. These tax rates are to help Hoosiers but do not include the tax refund that Governor Eric Holcomb had called for.

On the first day the bill is enacted, there will no longer be a higher gas tax than 0.295 cents per gallon. If the tax rate is less than that, it will continue to be the lower tax rate. This will continue until June 30, 2023.

Furthermore, this means the increase of the special fuel tax will also be suspended until June 30, 2023.

This policy will help reduce the gas tax by one cent per gallon and the special fuel tax by two cents per gallon.

Outlined in the bill, Hoosiers will be able to get a temporary, six-month reprieve on the 7% sales tax on residential utility bills.

Lastly, the bill calls for $215 million from the state general fund to be used to fund capital projects that have been affected by inflation-related costs. Meanwhile, $400 million from the state general fund will be distributed to the teacher's pension fund.

Press Secretary Erin Murphy released the following statement on behalf of Holcomb:

"When the General Assembly convenes next week, the more formal and public process begins. Governor Eric Holcomb will continue with his discussions with legislative leadership and members about the multiple issues before Hoosiers today, including the best way to return hard-earned tax dollars to Hoosiers in a timely, meaningful way."

Press Secretary Erin Murphy