INDIANA— A series of new state laws aimed at restructuring state government, slashing regulations for K-12 schools, and cutting red tape for local childcare facilities and small businesses will officially go into effect on July 1.
Following the conclusion of the 2026 legislative session, State Representative Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) is highlighting a slate of newly enacted legislation designed to bolster Hoosier economic growth and optimize government spending.
“The legislative session concluded with a strong focus on lowering everyday barriers for our communities and giving local institutions more room to operate effectively,” Bartels said. “These new laws provide critical updates to protect taxpayer dollars and expand options for working families.”
Streamlining Bureaucracy and Reducing School Regulations
Headlining the legislative updates is House Enrolled Act 1003, a priority bill authored directly by Bartels that targets government bloat. The legislation sunsets, eliminates, or consolidates roughly 40 redundant or inactive state boards and commissions that have outlived their utility or failed to hold meetings in recent years.
“This legislation modernizes the way many state boards and commissions are structured to make government more efficient,” Bartels explained. “The new law updates Indiana’s approach to construction, reorganizes building and fire safety codes under the Department of Homeland Security, and significantly reduces bureaucratic hurdles that slow down progress.”…