As we enter a new decade, a diverse range of new state and federal laws is now being enforced.
Earlier this year, 167 new state laws were approved by the Indiana House and Senate and signed by Gov. Eric Holcomb during the 2020 legislative session. Most of the new statutes enacted by the Republican chief executive took effect on July 1, while some “emergency” laws including the Senate Enrolled Act 2 took effect right away.
As Covington’s trusted law firm, we advise Hoosiers to get acquainted with new legislation that could impact life as we know it. That said, here are some changes you can expect in 2020 and beyond:
Health pricing — Beginning March 31, 2021, hospitals, urgent care clinics, and same-day surgery centers are mandated to post on their websites the costs of their most frequently used services. The Indiana Department of Insurance is instructed to start the process of building an all-payer claims database designed to make health care pricing honest and transparent. (SEA 5)
RDA transit — The board of the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority welcomes three new members designated to vote on issues about transit-oriented development. The new members — one each from Porter, Lake, and LaPorte counties — are appointed by the governor from a list of candidates nominated by each county’s commissioners before July 1. (SEA 367)
School water — All water fountains and taps in every school building must be tested for lead by Jan. 1, 2023, unless the system previously has been tested and secured compliance since 2016. Similarly, in Lake County, the water equipment in all educational institutions must be inspected for lead at least every other year beginning in 2023. (HEA 1265)
Smoking age — Hoosiers who are below 21 years of age are prohibited from purchasing or possessing cigarettes, vaping products, or electronic cigarettes under state law and federal statutes. Indiana retailers caught selling tobacco products to minors are subject to fines that can range from $400-$2,000, double the previous penalties. In addition, new tobacco retailers cannot be located within 1,000 feet of an educational institution. (Senate Enrolled Act 1)
Unemployment — Businesses in Indiana are mandated to continue paying the same unemployment insurance rates to the state until at least 2025, rather than the rates automatically being reduced after July 1, 2021. (HEA 1111)
Client-driven Legal Advisors
If you are in West Central Indiana and you need a lawyer who is dedicated to service and community, our team can help. The experienced attorneys at Taylor, Chadd, Minnette, Schneider & Clutter P.C. are committed to helping Hoosiers navigate all types of legal issues with dignity and grace. We specialize in a range of legal disciplines, from business law to family law and personal injury.
Book a free consultation today by calling us at (765) 361-9680 or filling out our contact form.