The start of the New Year will be here before we know it with the start of the 2013 legislative session soon to follow. As I reflect on the past year, I am reminded of the great strides we have taken to accelerate Indiana’s economy and move our state forward, but there is still work to be done.
One of my top priorities this legislative session will be to ensure that students have the fundamental skills to succeed when they enter the workforce. As a member of the Education Committee, I will concentrate on promoting early childhood education and expanding education opportunities for Hoosier families. Addressing teacher shortages in key areas such as math and science will help students develop necessary job skills. By providing access to the right resources and training, Hoosiers will be better positioned to succeed in today’s globally dynamic marketplace.
We have focused on cultivating a climate for job creation, and it is paying off. This year, the number of major jobs announcements has set a new record for Indiana and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. The IEDC worked with 228 companies that made decisions to expand or establish new business operations in Indiana, outpacing the 219 decisions by companies announced at year-end last year and every other year on record.
Indiana ranks first in the Midwest and fifth in the nation as the best place to do business in the Pollina Corporate Top 10 Pro-Business States for 2012 study. We are also one of nine states that have triple-A credit rating. We must continue on this path of success by prioritizing economic development while preserving fiscal integrity.
As Chairman of the Financial Institutions Committee, I deal with issues related to many kinds of financial establishments from check cashing companies to national banks. I understand the importance of managing our money well. The General Assembly will continue to eliminate wasteful government spending and make strategic investments and restorations to our cities and towns. Continuing to grow our economy and passing a balanced budget is important to providing financial security for future generations of Hoosiers.
As we look to build on our momentum, I highly value your input in the issues that matter most to you and your family. I will be holding nine town hall meetings spanning from January through early May. I will be available to listen to constituents, discuss concerns and provide further information on the legislative session. I encourage all members of the community to come out and participate in these discussions.
In addition to town hall meetings, I am meeting with teachers and administrators from our local schools and local police, fire and safety personnel. I plan to meet with small business owners in Johnson County to find out what our state legislature can do to help them remain successful. My objective is to get as much input as possible from the community as we work together for a better Indiana.
If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please contact me at (317) 232-9620 or by email at h58@iga.in.gov.
