The 2011 legislative session one of historic challenges and accomplishments. Despite the many road bumps, House Republicans have delivered on the promises they made in 2010.
State Representative Woody Burton (R-Greenwood) along with other House Republican members presented the ‘Strengthen Indiana Plan’ in September of 2010. Unlike many political pledges, everything that was promised in the plan was successfully delivered through legislative action this year.
“It has been an unconventional legislative session, but I am pleased to say that we have delivered on what we promised we would do this session,” Rep. Burton said. “With the help of strong, conservative leadership, we passed a fiscally sound budget that pushes Indiana to spend within its means, without raising taxes on Hoosier taxpayers.”
“We provided additional educational opportunities to Hoosier students and their families, and created more ways for local communities to foster economic development to bring jobs. It has been a historic session and I believe,in more than one way, our work at the Statehouse has truly strengthened Indiana.”
Protecting Hoosier Taxpayers
House Republicans have repeatedly pledged to enact a responsible state budget, which meets the state’s critical needs without tax increases. The fiscally sound budget will bring consistency for both Hoosier taxpayers and businesses.
In addition, House Speaker Brian Bosma (R-Indianapolis), Senator David Long (R-Fort Wayne), and Governor Daniels announced this legislative session that an additional $150 million will be directed to K-12 education. This announcement came after an updated revenue forecast showed Indiana receiving more than what was projected under prior forecasts.
The increased revenues, in addition to prudent reserve balances, prove that the disciplined financial efforts by House Republicans along with Governor Daniels are paying off for the State of Indiana.
Promoting Hoosier Job Creation
The “Strengthen Indiana Plan” focused on key elements that promote job creation and incentivize employers to grow and relocate to Indiana. Start-up capital for budding businesses has now become more accessible by enhancing the Venture Capital Investment tax credit.
House Republicans have also improved the Industrial Recovery Tax Credit that creates incentives to help revitalize communities with empty factories and warehouses.
In addition to economic incentives, House Republicans also made it easier for new businesses to be created. The new legislation will cut the unnecessary red tape and expedite the business start up process.
Expanding Education Opportunities
House Republicans pledged to give families more choices for their students’ education, regardless of income or zip code. They have fulfilled their promise by expanding educational opportunities for Hoosier families, especially those of limited means.
Charter Schools were first authorized in Indiana in 2001. During the 2011 session, House Republicans passed legislation to allow additional charter schools without further obstacles and provide innovative options to public school students.
In addition, legislation was passed to provide high school students who graduate early with a scholarship,as long as they attend an accredited university to further their education, to pay for tuition fees. House Republicans also passed legislation to reward high-performing teachers with merit pay.
In regards to the school funding formula, House Republicans demonstrated their commitment to education by focusing every additional dollar on the classroom. The school funding formula will now have dollars following the child,not the institution.
“This session has been challenging, perhaps more so than any session in memory. Change is never easy,this is no less true for legislative bodies. We have made landmark legislative decisions that will positively affect issues our state has faced so our children and their children will have a better future here in Indiana. I can proudly say that House Republicans have fulfilled their promises and enacted legislation that will significantly strengthen Indiana,” said Speaker Bosma.
