Hamilton's Highlights
Dear Neighbor,
Welcome to my newsletter, which includes updates from my work in recent weeks representing House District 87. As always, feel free to contact my office at h87@iga.in.gov with any questions or concerns.
In service,
Reproductive Health & Action Coalition
I had the great pleasure of speaking at the Reproductive Health & Action Coalition day at the Statehouse last week. With Indiana’s strict abortion ban in place, it has never been more important to find ways to support women and girls through the legislative process. That includes fully funding maternal health and public health initiatives, as well as advocating for pro-family policies like paid family leave and accessible childcare.
Thank you to all of the activists, advocacy group and physicians that came out to the Statehouse for this event.
A Budget for the People blocked
Last week, the House advanced the two-year, $46 billion state budget proposal, which now heads to the Senate for their consideration. House Democrats presented our own proposal for the budget, "A Budget for the People." The Majority rejected all of our ideas to help working Hoosiers get ahead during the second reading amendment process.
Our state budget proposal had one purpose in mind: to help ensure Hoosiers have a chance to thrive. Our budget proposal would have provided balanced tax relief, supported K-12 public education, bolstered public heath and lowered health care costs. I offered an amendment to invest in early learning - a proven way to give our kids a strong start in school and in life. Indiana is one of only six states that does not offer comprehensive pre-k. With this lack of investment, we are failing our families as well as our future.
Instead of passing a budget that truly benefits Hoosiers, the Majority passed a budget that cuts critical programs and allocates $183 million in new funding to cover private school tuition for Indiana’s wealthiest households. In fact, the new wealthiest family subsidy is a top priority for the Majority. I voted no on the final version of the budget as it does little to help working Hoosiers get ahead.
Our budget would have helped Hoosiers during these uncertain times. From education to public health, we can do more to grow the quality of life in our state. The Majority’s opposition to these proposals was a vote against Hoosiers. For more information on the details of our budget proposal, click the link here.
Pedestrian Bridges coming to the Monon and Nickle Plate Trails
In an exciting announcement last week, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) awarded $13 million to build pedestrian bridges at the Monon Trail over 86th Street and the Nickel Plate Trail over 82nd Street. These critical infrastructure investments will improve safety at these busy intersections. Not only does this protect vulnerable road users, but it furthers connects our vast network of trails and supports our local economy and air quality. For more information about the projects, visit the Indianapolis MOP website.
I am thrilled that this major investment in our community is coming to fruition. As the founder of the Bicameral, Bipartisan Trails Caucus, I have fought for state and federal funding to build our trail network. This is the next step to increase regional connectivity so more Hoosiers can safely use the Nickle Plate and Monon trails!
Mid-Session Town Hall
I want to remind everyone that on Wednesday, March 5, I will be hosting a Mid-Session Town Hall alongside State Senator Fady Qaddoura. The event will take place from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Eastwood Middle School, 4401 E. 62nd St., Indianapolis, IN 46220.
Join us as we discuss our work in the first half of the legislative session and what we are expecting in the second half. Hear about the policies we are excited about, and the policies we are concerned about. This is a great opportunity to share your thoughts, questions and concerns about issues that impact our community. I hope to see you there!
Indiana House approves budget bill; now heads to the Senate
Indiana House passes budget bill; Democrats express concerns over possibility of special session
Indiana mom calls on leaders to change abortion records policy
More than $80 million awarded for 26 infrastructure projects in central Indiana
Dead on arrival: Indiana environmental protection bills fail to pass out of committees
While bill criminalizing homeless Hoosiers has failed, a complicated problem persists
Indiana lawmakers set to vote on budget that increases funding for virtual charter schools