STATEHOUSE—State Rep. Woody Burton (R-Whiteland) waited patiently today with his House Republican colleagues, anticipating when and if House Democrats would show up to conduct business.
“These elected officials were brought here to represent their districts,” said Rep. Burton, “so when they walk out, they are pushing their own personal agendas by not allowing anyone else to have a voice.
“Too many bi-partisan bills were pushed aside to appease their political games, and it’s shameful.”
As Speaker Brian Bosma (R-Indianapolis) asked for a quorum call—or attendance—every two hours today, only 63 members were present—60 Republican and three Democrat. Sixty-seven members are required for a quorum call, thus preventing any state business to occur today.
Because of the Democrat “walk-out,” the House will be unable to adopt 23 committee reports before the midnight deadline today. Committee reports have to be adopted in order for the legislation to receive a floor hearing in the full House.
Included in that list are House Bill 1176 and 1178, which were authored by Rep. Burton, and deal with a 13th check for public employee retirement plans.
“Both bills affect many Hoosiers and it’s been an issue we have been working on for several years,” said Rep. Burton. “We were able to finally come to an agreement, working out all the kinks to provide public employees the additional help they are in dire need of.
“Those efforts were just flushed down the toilet today, with House Democrats pushing the handle, and at the expense of the Hoosier taxpayer.”
