Page 7 - Legislative Process News Today

The Indiana Library Federation is encouraging Hoosier lawmakers not to revive legislation that would open the door to widespread book banning at school and public libraries.

"It is imperative that Hoosiers suffering from mental illness know they have someone to call, someone to respond and a safe place to go," said state Sen. Michael Crider.

The Republican-controlled Senate voted 40-10 Tuesday to approve its vision for spending some $43.3 billion in state resources over the next two years.

A House-approved plan authorizing five additional alcohol sales permits for restaurants in and near downtown Valparaiso died Monday in the Senate.

Merrillville is poised to become the first Northwest Indiana community to raise additional revenue for town projects using a food and beverage tax.

A potentially transformational plan for development in Lake County, and especially Gary, is close to reaching the governors desk to be signed into law.

State Sen. Rodney Pol Jr., D-Chesterton, said he was disappointed the House didnt take up the measure, especially since it passed the Senate Feb. 27 by a 49-0 margin.

The legislation sought to prohibit localities from requiring contractors sign on to a project labor agreement as a condition of bidding on certain public works projects.

Indiana schools typically dont provide any kind of sex education until at least fifth grade, except for programs focused on preventing child abuse and child sexual abuse.

"There are times when its simply too dangerous to the public for a defendant to be released on bail," said state Rep. Chris Jeter, R-Fishers.