The House Judiciary Committee heard SB 332, sponsored by Rep. Olthoff, on adoption matters. The legislation: changes adoption notice language; provides consent to adoption is not required from a father if the child born out of wedlock was conceived because of a crime rape, child molesting, sexual misconduct with a minor, or incest in Indiana or a crime in any other jurisdiction, … [Read more...] about Adoption matters
Possession of a firearm by an illegal alien
The House Courts and Criminal Code Committee heard SB 344 on possession of a firearm by an illegal alien. Sponsor Rep. Lucas explained that an alien who is illegally or unlawfully present in the United States and knowingly or intentionally possesses a firearm commits unlawful possession of a firearm by an alien, a Level 6 felony. The Indiana Prosecuting Attorneys Council testified … [Read more...] about Possession of a firearm by an illegal alien
Abortion, child abuse, and human trafficking
The House Public Policy Committee heard SB 404 on abortion, child abuse, and human trafficking sponsored by Rep. Mayfield and Rep. Washburne. Author Sen. Houchin characterized the bill as strengthening parental rights by requiring parental consent with proof of identity to be provided before a minor may have an abortion. The bill addresses, among other items, a number of abortion … [Read more...] about Abortion, child abuse, and human trafficking
Low level offenses
The House Courts and Criminal Code Committee heard SB 425, sponsored by Rep. Frizzell, on low level offenses. Author Sen. Young explained that the bill reduces a number of election crimes from Level 6 felonies to Class A misdemeanors. It also permits an alcoholic beverage retailer or dealer to: (1) accept credit cards; and (2) extend credit to a consumer if the amount owed is paid … [Read more...] about Low level offenses
Opioid addiction
The House Public Health Committee heard SB 499, sponsored by Rep. Steuerwald and Rep. Kirchhofer, on involuntary commitment of people with opioid addiction as a pilot program in Allen, Marion, and Wayne counties. The bill also establishes the criteria for the program. It specifies that existing involuntary commitment laws apply to persons at serious risk of injury or death due to … [Read more...] about Opioid addiction