Hamilton's Highlights
Dear Neighbor,
Welcome to my newsletter! Below, you’ll find updates on my recent work representing House District 87—both in the community and on key policy issues—since the legislative session wrapped up in late April.
As always, feel free to contact my office at h87@iga.in.gov with any questions or concerns.
In service,
Sending off the 2025 class of interns
Last month, I was happy to meet with the 2025 intern class for a session debrief discussion as the House Democratic Caucus Chair. Interns are crucial in helping staff support our work as legislators. Every year, I am inspired to see so many talented, passionate and hard working young people dedicate their time to serving our state. I can’t wait to see all the wonderful things they accomplish in the world!
Global Entrepreneurship Network Conference
I was glad to spend time this week at the Global Entrepreneurship Congress, which brought together approximately 3,500 attendees from around the world for a dynamic mix of talks, workshops, networking, and collaboration—all focused on innovation and entrepreneurship.
One highlight was learning about Faith Spencer, an early cohort member of the StartedUp Foundation, who has launched IronWorkz, a business incubator in Gary, Indiana. I also learned about several Indiana University-housed student startups—ventures that reflect the strength of our state’s next generation of innovators. Throughout the week, I met founders from across the globe and reconnected with many of Indiana’s most talented entrepreneurs and business leaders. As a founding member of the Indiana Legislative Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship Caucus, I was deeply inspired—and event more energized to champion youth entrepreneurship throughout our state.
Big thanks to the StartedUp Foundation for playing such a key role in making this global event a success!
Greenways Foundation Trails Celebration
I was honored to take part in the Greenways Foundation Trails Celebration last month. As the founder of Indiana’s bipartisan, bicameral Trails Caucus, I’ve been a strong advocate for securing funding to expand our state’s trail network.
The Greenways Foundation is a vital partner in this effort, providing essential support to communities across Indiana as they work to build trails that enhance quality of life and drive local economic development.
While the 2025 budget was a setback for trails funding, the work continues. Many dedicated stakeholders remain committed to growing and maintaining Indiana’s trails for the benefit of all Hoosiers.
Joining Recycleforce for Exciting USDOE Partnership Launch
Earlier this month, I was so glad to join RecycleForce, the Department of Energy’s Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Technologies Office (AMMTO), and AMES National Lab to see firsthand the future of rare-earth element recovery—right here in Indianapolis.
Rare-earth elements are essential to everything from smartphones to renewable energy, yet the U.S. remains dependent on imports. RecycleForce is now a pilot site for AMES Lab’s groundbreaking recovery technology. These partnerships show how Indiana can lead in both clean tech and second-chance employment.
During this year’s legislative session, I authored House Enrolled Act 1289, to help organizations like RecycleForce—employment social enterprises supporting individuals post-incarceration—expand their impact across Indiana. These organizations are changing lives while also helping to build a circular economy that positions Indiana for long-term sustainability and innovation.
Roche Diagnostics Expansion
Last month, I was thrilled to join local, state and federal leaders at Roche Diagnostics USA this morning for their announcement of a $550 million expansion that will result in 650 family supporting jobs at their expanded North American headquarters right here on the northeast side of Indianapolis in House District 87!
So glad to see the growth of this global life sciences leader here in central Indiana.
Celebrity Scooper at BRICs
Last week, I had a great time today serving as a “celebrity scooper” at BRICS in Broad Ripple!
They’re celebrating 15 years of serving up amazing ice cream along the Monon Trail—and in true BRICS fashion, they marked the occasion with a free scoop for every customer. It’s just one example of the generous, community-minded spirit that makes BRICS such a beloved local business.
Congratulations to the entire BRICS team—here’s to many more sweet years ahead!
Skiles Test Nature Clean Up
Last month, it was great to join our community for a clean up at Skiles Test Nature Park (an incredible hidden gem of a park in House District 87)! Sponsored by BRAG, Indy Parks and the Friends of Skiles Test Nature Park. Shout out to the awesome weed-pulling Girl Scouts!
Hamilton opposes the 2025 state budget: ‘This isn’t what Hoosiers need’
Trump Administration overturns Biden-era guidance on emergency abortions (ft. Rep. Hamilton)
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Former superintendent of Indiana virtual charter schools pleads guilty to wire fraud
Biggest bills of 2025 — property tax reform and state budget — will have ripple effects for years
Republicans trying to control Indiana University meet little resistance
Indiana Statehouse: Where key education bills ended
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