INDIANAPOLIS — In the moments before and moments after Indiana’s near-total abortion ban became official, businesses and events from across the state began to react.
“While there are so many different policies any individual or business want to consider, this one is going to be at the top of their list,” Laura Wilson, an associate professor of political science at the University of Indianapolis, said.
While the law does not go into effect until September 15, companies including Indiana-based Eli Lilly and Cummins spoke out against the law through statements following Governor Eric Holcomb’s signature on the bill.
During debates at the statehouse, conferences in town, like Gen Con, also shared their discern with the legislation.
“Words can turn into action,” Wilson said.
Economist Robert Guell with Indiana State University added the biggest hit may be on the conference and convention scene.
“The NCAA being downtown — Its constituents are universities. Believe me, university communities are not excited about SB1,” Guell said.
Kyle Anderson, an economist with IUPUI, believes recruiting and retaining talent will become more difficult for companies. He added the implications of the law on Indiana’s economy is more long-term than in the immediate.
“It’s one thing to have an existing employer leave, that’s a challenge right, but if we’re trying to recruit new corporate employers to the state of Indiana, I think that job just got significantly harder,” Anderson said.
The abortion issue is something neighboring states could capitalize on. Illinois has already expressed interest in Eli Lilly.
“Their business environment is so horrifying that I don’t see them as a viable competitor, but they have one card to play now and I’m sure they’ll play it as much as they can,” Guell said.
-
Indy Eleven founder wants to work with city to bring in Eleven Park, MLS team
The founder the Keystone Group and Indy Eleven says he wants to sit down with Mayor Hogsett to talk about plans to bring an MLS team to Indianapolis.“A Manufactured Crisis”: IU community reacts to protester arrests
Many on Indiana University’s campus fear that arrests made during a protest may have violated the right to free speech.Training future forensic scientists at UIndy's crime scene house
Scenes of blood and violence are common in this little house on the south side of Indianapolis. But this isn't a crime scene, it's a class room.One dead following carjacking on Indy's east side
Police are investigating after a carjacking left one person dead on Indy's east side on Monday. IMPD says one person has been detained, and the vehicle was located.