Indiana’s 2025 legislative session kicks off on January 8, with a packed agenda that promises to keep lawmakers busy. Capital Chronicle Editor-in-Chief, Niki Kelly, describes the state’s agenda this year as “ridiculously heavy,” highlighting the significant issues up for discussion.
Budget Takes Center Stage
The state budget is the primary focus of this session, as it’s the only item that lawmakers are legally required to finalize. Education is expected to dominate budget discussions.
Kelly notes, “It usually takes up half of the budget, though its proportion in percentage of the dollars has been dropping slightly. Still, they are putting billions of dollars every year into Indiana K-12 and higher education.” However, the specifics of how much local school districts will receive in operating funds remain uncertain.
Educational Reforms on the Horizon
Education isn’t just about the budget. Lawmakers will also address potential revamps of Indiana high school diplomas, changes to IREAD tests, and discussions about the state’s Pre-K program, which has remained largely stagnant in recent years.
Medicaid Costs Under Scrutiny
Medicaid will be another key topic. “The cost of Medicaid has been creeping up in the state budget,” Kelly explains. Lawmakers are determined to find ways to control these escalating costs.
Other Key Issues
- Casino in New Haven: The potential development of a casino in New Haven is on the table.
- Utility Bills and Property Taxes: These perennial issues will once again draw attention, with discussions likely focusing on finding ways to provide relief to residents.
- Transportation Funding: Ensuring adequate funding for transportation infrastructure will be another priority for lawmakers.
As the legislative session begins, these topics are set to shape the future of Indiana, with lawmakers working diligently to address the pressing issues facing the state.
