The Senate Judiciary Committee heard Sen. Charbonneau’s SB 394 on reporting of government malfeasance. This bill provides for confidentiality and relief for an individual who reports certain suspected violations of law by public officers. The bill was amended to exempt state employees and state agencies. Representatives of Indiana Association of Cities and Towns, Association of I … [Read more...] about Reporting of government malfeasance
Civil
Patent protection
The House Judiciary Committee also heard Rep. Koch’s HB 1102 concerning patent protection. The bill addresses bad faith demand letters asserting claims of patent infringement, commonly known as “patent troll activity”. The bill provides for the Attorney General or private action to address bad faith claim letters, enforcement and remedies, and factors the court should consider in eva … [Read more...] about Patent protection
Protective orders and employment
The Senate Labor and Pensions Committee heard Sen. Randolph’s SB 133, on protective orders and employment, providing that an employer cannot deny unemployment benefits based on the filing of a protection order. Section 1 was deleted by a voice vote of the committee. The second section of the bill passed, prohibiting an employer from discriminating against an employee, including t … [Read more...] about Protective orders and employment
Defense to liability concerning propane suppliers
The Senate Civil Law Committee heard Sen. Messmer’s SB 361, on defense to liability concerning propane suppliers. This bill provides that the seller, supplier, handler, or transporter of liquefied petroleum gas that was used in liquefied petroleum gas equipment or a liquefied petroleum gas appliance, involved in causing bodily injury or property damage has an assumed risk a … [Read more...] about Defense to liability concerning propane suppliers
Tax deeds and conveyance documents
The Senate Civil Law Committee heard Sen. Zakas’ SB 524 on tax deeds and conveyance documents. A representative of the Indiana Land Title Association explained that this bill provides that when a county auditor sends out certain notices for a tax sale by certified mail, the notices must be sent by certified mail, return receipt requested. It also requires that a verified petition f … [Read more...] about Tax deeds and conveyance documents