What we're watching during Indiana's 2026 legislative session
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The legislative session that started this week is going to be a quick one.
The big picture: Affordability issues — health care, child care and utilities — are expected to be big topics of conversation, but leadership has signaled the amount of issues that can be tackled will be limited because the session is slated to end two weeks earlier than normal.
- That's because lawmakers started the session early to consider redistricting legislation.
Yes, but: A condensed timeline won't stop Democrats from pushing to reopen the budget.
Between the lines: In a short session, lawmakers generally don't consider legislation with major fiscal implications — those matters are saved for the long sessions, when the state budget is written.
- But the aforementioned affordability issues, including a child care crisis — and a greatly improved revenue forecast — are reasons, Democrats say, to reopen the budget.
- "Do we not open a budget to not take care of the human infrastructure of this state?" Rep. Greg Porter (D-Indianapolis) said during a press conference this week.
- Porter said there are ways to accomplish their goals with price tags this session — like fully funding child care vouchers — if lawmakers "have the will to address those issues for Hoosiers."
Reality check: Republicans have the supermajority. If they don't want to reopen the budget, they won't.
- The GOP caucuses haven't yet released their priority bills, but Majority Floor Leader Matt Lehman (R-Berne) said affordable housing will be a priority.
What we're watching: How Republicans adjust after the redistricting fight divided them.
- Leadership has said they'll have no problem moving on and working together, but several bills have been filed that signal some continuing division.
- Several bills seek to limit some of Gov. Mike Braun's appointment powers, while another would change the process that allowed Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith onto the ticket.
- A bill aiming to crack down on illegal immigration is also dividing conservatives.
What's next: Both House and Senate education committees meet tomorrow, discussing hot-button issues like a stricter school cellphone ban and limiting social media access for kids.