Christmas Came Early: Updates on Legislative Priorities

The Chamber hosted its first Legislative Council meeting last week, bringing together several of our region’s state lawmakers. Rep. Peggy Mayfield (District 60), Rep. Matt Pierce (District 61), Rep. Dave Hall (District 62), and Sen. Shelli Yoder (District 40) joined the call to share insights on their priorities for the upcoming legislative session and to set expectations for what’s ahead at the Statehouse. ​

Legislators’ Key Priorities: 

• Rep. Hall 
  • Introducing a $1 gate fee bill for Brown and Monroe Counties to support public safety and infrastructure. 
  • The proposal would also give county commissioners a vote on implementation. 
• Sen. Yoder 
  • Supporting legislation that allows religious houses of worship to address housing needs and improve kindergarten readiness. 
  • Advancing accelerated graduate degree programs and C-PACE legislation to help businesses reduce utility costs. 
• Rep. Pierce 
  • Examining the impact of redistricting on this year’s legislative dynamics. 
  • Considering performance-based rate making for utilities. 
• Rep. Mayfield 
  • Focusing on cutting red tape and resolving constituent issues with state agencies. ​

Expected Challenges and Ongoing Discussions 
Lawmakers anticipate only minor revisions to SB 1, the tax bill that limits municipal revenue sources, largely because its full impact has yet to be realized. 

Based on the Indiana State Chamber's Legislative Preview, affordability remains a central discussion point. Legislators are exploring ways to reduce utility costs, including the potential use of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). Although no state currently deploys SMRs—and many local governments, including Bloomington, have moratoriums in place—Indiana leaders see innovation potential. However, significant research and stronger local support will be required, especially given statewide siting challenges. 

Permitting reform also surfaced as a major topic. Many legislators agreed that a more streamlined process is necessary to support business growth and remove barriers to development. 

Indiana’s Failed Redistricting Attempt 
Coincidentally, the Legislative Council meeting occurred the same day the Indiana House passed the mid-decade redistricting bill. One day later, the Senate rejected the proposal in a 31–19 vote. The move—breaking from the preferences of both the Trump Administration and Governor Braun—has drawn national attention. 

Start Your Year Off Right: Attend the 2026 Legislative Preview 
Join us on Friday, January 9, from 8:30–10:30 a.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn’s Grand Ballroom for the Chamber’s annual Legislative Preview. This event features the unveiling of the Chamber’s Legislative Agenda and offers members the opportunity to hear directly from state legislators about their priorities for the year. 
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We encourage you to register or consider sponsoring this important event. ​

By: Autum Marshall

O'Neill Service Corps Advocacy & Public Policy Fellow