INDIANAPOLIS – Today, April 25, the Indiana General Assembly approved the final version of House Bill 1001, advancing the state’s next two-year budget to the governor’s desk. State Rep. Alex Burton (D-Evansville) voted against the bill, citing critical gaps in education, housing and support for immigrant communities.
“Hoosiers deserve better than what this legislation proposed,” Burton said. “Our focus should be on building the best pre-K through 12 school system, embracing those new to America and improving housing for all Hoosiers. These aspects are crucial in building our strongest future.”
The budget, which includes cuts to key investments and fails to meet the moment on immigration or housing infrastructure, comes at a time when Indiana’s once-boasted fiscal cushion is eroding. Despite touting $6 billion in reserves just months ago, the state has already lost $800 million since December, and economists remain uncertain about what lies ahead thanks to last week’s $2.4 billion revenue shortfall forecast.
“Instead of using our surplus to make smart, forward-looking investments, this budget backs away from bold action,” Burton said. “Now more than ever, we should be investing in families, schools and communities – not tightening the belt when so many Hoosiers are struggling to make ends meet.”
Burton has long-championed affordable housing, equitable education and policies that support newcomers to Indiana.
“We can’t afford short-sighted budgeting when the long-term health of our economy depends on the success of our people,” Burton concluded. “We need a budget that reflects our vision, not just numbers on a spreadsheet. For these reasons, I voted against this bill.”
