The House Courts and Criminal Code Committee heard SB 231 on various corrections matters sponsored by Rep. Bartels and Rep. Sweet. Author Sen. Bohacek introduced the bill which eliminates requirements that the Department of Correction (DOC) maintain farm programs for offenders committed to the DOC and prepare a report calculating the savings realized as a result of sentencing … [Read more...] about Various corrections matters
Safe haven infants and foster youth
The Senate Family and Children Services Committee heard HB 1099 on safe haven infants and foster youth sponsored by Sen. Donato. Author Rep. DeVon introduced the bill and explained that it provides that the maximum age for a safe haven infant is 60 days of age, repeals the definition of “abandoned child”, amends the definition of “foster youth”, and makes conforming changes … [Read more...] about Safe haven infants and foster youth
Resisting law enforcement
The Senate Corrections and Criminal Law Committee heard HB 1188 on resisting law enforcement sponsored by Sen. Carrasco and Sen. Clark. Author Rep. Shonkwiler introduced the bill and explained that the bill increases certain penalties for resisting law enforcement. An amendment was adopted with a 7-1 vote to increase the penalty to a Level 5 felony if while committing the offense … [Read more...] about Resisting law enforcement
Juvenile justice matters
The Senate Judiciary Committee heard HB 1403 on juvenile justice matters sponsored by Sen. Crider. Author Rep. McNamara gave background on the bill noting that Youth Justice Oversight Committee (YJOC) was created in 2022 to address juvenile justice reform. The bill at that time required formation of committees, development of reports, and pilot programs. With the completion of those … [Read more...] about Juvenile justice matters
Pro bono legal services fee
The Senate Judiciary Committee heard HB 1478 on pro bono legal services fee sponsored by Senator Koch. Author Rep. Zimmerman summarized the bill noting that there is currently a $1.00 fee charged when certain civil actions are filed. The fee is transmitted to the Indiana Bar Foundation to assist in their funding pro bono legal services in Indiana. It does not fund any attorneys but … [Read more...] about Pro bono legal services fee