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COMMENTARY: FREEDOM TO BUILD YOUR HOME YOUR WAY

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COMMENTARY

Freedom to Build Your Home Your Way

A home of one’s own has always been part of the American Dream.  Millions of Americans have considered building or moving into a smaller house. Some people want a true “tiny home” smaller than 400 square feet, a cultural phenomenon captured on shows like Tiny House Hunters. Others may just want a small house that’s right-sized and right-priced—for them. Recent action by the Vanderburgh County Commission, spearheaded by Commissioner Cheryl Musgrave, has given people considering a smaller house the right to build a house that’s right for them.

To some, smaller houses mean the ability to live in a more ecologically sustainable way, using fewer resources. For others, smaller houses mean a continued ability to live within their financial means, rather than being forced to build a house that’s too large for their budget. And some people just prefer smaller houses to larger ones.

Surprisingly, for decades, needless government regulations meant that such dwellings could not have been built in Vanderburgh County without a variance. County ordinances required new houses to be at least 720 square feet. At that size, tiny homes, and even many houses built in the early twentieth century, could not be built legally in Vanderburgh County.

It took a year to repeal this excessive regulation. Commissioner Musgrave led the way as unelected bureaucrats in the Area Plan Commission dragged their feet. With the repeal of the 720 minimum square foot rule, Vanderburgh County residents now have greater freedom to live sustainably and affordably. Commissioners Ben Shoulders and Jeff Hatfield also supported this important rule change.

“This rule change restores a little bit of freedom that had eroded away,” said Commissioner Musgrave. “Allowing smaller homes will make everyone better off by letting people choose the housing size that is right for them without the government restricting their choice arbitrarily.”

New housing must still comply with state building codes and other ordinances. Anyone wishing to build a smaller house should still check with the Building Commissioner and other offices to ensure their plans comply with safety and other regulations.

We commend Vanderburgh County Commissioner Cheryl Musgrave for thinking outside the box and taking a common-sense approach against overreaching bureaucratic regulations.  Oh, we are also glad that County Commissioner Jeff Hatfield and Ben Shoulders supported Mrs. Musgrave in this endeavor.

HAPPENINGS AT THE VANDERBURGH COUNTY GOP

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gop
Central Committee:
     Wayne Parke, Chairman
     Mary Jo Kaiser, Political Director
     Dottie Thomas, Vice Chairman
     Lon Walters, Secretary
     Farley Smith, Treasurer
     Kevin Harrison, Editor  
News and Upcoming Events for March 3, 2020

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Thank you for a Successful 2020 Lincoln Day Celebration

Last Friday evening, February 28, 2020, the Vanderburgh County Republican Party held its annual Lincoln Day Dinner at the Evansville Country Club. This year’s Keynote Speaker Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb was joined onstage by Indiana Republican Party Chairman Kyle Hupfer for an informal ‘fireside chat’. Among the topics discussed were the strength of the Indiana Republican Party, and how Republican leadership has made Indiana an economic success story and national leader in  job creation. Prior to Governor Holcomb taking the stage, introductory speeches were given by guest speakers Evansville Mayor Lloyd Winnecke and 8th District Congressman Dr. Larry Bucshon. Indiana State Representative Jim Tomes lead the gathering of approximately 180 in the Pledge of Allegiance and in the Invocation. Vanderburgh County GOP Chairman Wayne Parke presided over the event.

At the end of the Lincoln Day proceedings, Chairman Wayne Parke presented the 2020 Republican of the Year award to Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch for her lifetime of public service.
Indiana GOP Chairman Kyle Hupfer (L) and Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb at the 2020 VCRP Lincoln Day Dinner.
The Vanderburgh County Republican Party would like to thank everyone that helped make this year’s Lincoln Day Dinner a huge success!

Suzanne Crouch named 2020 Republican Of The Year 

Lt. Governor Suzanne Couch was named the 2020 recipient of the Republican of the Year Award at the conclusion of last Friday evening’s Vanderburgh County Lincoln Day Dinner. As has been the practice in past years, the introduction of the award winner is prefaced with facts about the individual’s life and accomplishments prior to revealing the name of the recipient.

The following remarks were made by VCRP Chairman Wayne Parke in announcing this year’s winner, Indiana Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch.
Five years ago, the Vanderburgh County Republican Party started giving a “Republican of the Year” Award. It is awarded to a person who has worked hard giving both time and money to make our City and County the best it can be. Past recipients of this award are Susie Kirk, Kevin Harrison, Frank Peterlin, Lloyd Winnecke and myself-all are here tonight.
Like those winners in the past, this year’s recipient has done an outstanding job supporting the Republican Party and the citizens of Vanderburgh County. Here are some hints as to who our Recipient is this year-can you guess who?
  • Our 2020 Recipient’s birthday was yesterday-February 27.
  • Our Recipient attended Mater Dei High School and got a BS Degree from Purdue University.
  • Our Recipient served as Chairman of the Vanderburgh Republican Party from 1989 thru 1993.
  • Our Recipient was elected Vanderburgh County Auditor in 1994 and served 8 years in that position. Our Recipient established a reputation of fighting for government efficiency, responsiveness, accountability and accessibility. For the first time in decades, the Office received a clean bill of health from the State Board of Accounts.
  • In 2002, our Recipient was elected to be a County Commissioner and then became President of that group and led the charge to televise the weekly meetings. For the first time, the Commissioners applied for and received federal transportation money for a local road project.
  • In 2005, our Recipient filled the State Representative position for HD 78 when Vaneta Becker move to the State Senate. This State Representative positon represents Vanderburgh, Spencer and Warrick Counties.
  • In 2013, our Recipient was appointed to fill the vacant Indiana State Auditor position. In 2014, our Recipient ran for the State Auditor position and beat the Democrat opponent by a 23 percent margin.
  • In 2016, when Mike Pence was selected to be Donald Trump’s running mate, Eric Holcomb became the Republican Governor candidate and our Recipient was selected to run for Lt Governor on the State Republican ticket.
  • Our Recipient married Larry Downs shortly after graduating from Purdue and they have a daughter, Courtney.

Fellow Republicans, let us stand and give a warm round of applause for our 2020 Vanderburgh County Republican of the Year-Suzanne Crouch!

Presented by: Wayne Parke,Chairman VCRP

 
Voter Registration for 2020 Primary Ends Monday, April 6, 2020

Voter Registration for the 2020 Primary Election ends Monday, April 6, 2020. Registration can be done online, by mail or in person.

Register to Vote Online: Register to vote online by visiting indianavoters.com. Indiana residents with a valid Indiana driver’s license or Indiana state-issued identification card will be able to use this tool to submit a new voter registration application or to update an existing voter registration record.

Register to Vote by Mail or In-Person: To register to vote or update your current registration by mail or in person, you will need to complete and return the Voter Registration Form (VRG-7) on or before April 6, 2020. ONLY the version of the state voter registration form (VRG-7) published on the Indiana Secretary of State Election Division website will be accepted by the Vanderburgh County Voter Registration office. Return the completed form to the Vanderburgh County Voter Registration office or the Indiana Election Division by midnight, April 6, 2020.

Get a copy of form VRG-7: Voter Registration Application by visiting the Indiana Voter Portal HERE
Mail your completed VRG-7 form to : Vanderburgh County Voter Registration
Civic Center Complex, Room 214
1 NW M.L. King, Jr. Blvd

Evansville, IN. 47708

You can also apply in person at the Vanderburgh County Voter Registration office or the Vanderburgh County Clerk’s office (Civic Center Complex, Room 216). For more information visit the Vanderburgh County Voters Registration webpage, or call 812-435-5222.

 
Early Voting (Absentee In-Person) begins at the Vanderburgh County Election Office on Tuesday, April 7, 2020
The first day that a voter may vote an absentee ballot for the 2020 Primary Election is Tuesday April 7, 2020. All registered voters in Indiana are eligible to vote in-person at the county election board office beginning 28 days before Election Day. Early voting at the Election Office will be 8:00 am – 4:00 pm weekdays starting Tuesday April 7 and conclude at Noon on Monday May 4, 2020.

To vote absentee by mail, complete the APPLICATION FOR ABSENTEE BALLOT found at the Vanderburgh County ClerkElections web page and mail it to:       Vanderburgh County Election

P.O. Box 3343

Evansville, IN 47732-3343

Absentee ballot applications and forms can also be found on the Indiana Voters Portal . If you have any questions, please call the Election Office at 812-435-5122.  The Vanderburgh County Election Office is located at :
1 NW ML King Jr. BLVD ,Evansville, IN

 2020 Republican Primary Candidates
FEDERAL
President of the United States      Donald J. Trump
 William Weld
U S Representative District 8       Larry Bucshon
STATE
Governor                Eric Holcomb
  Lt. Governor                Suzanne Crouch
 State Senate District 50               Vaneta Becker
State Representative  Dist. 64       Matt Hostettler
State Representative  Dist. 76       Wendy McNamara
State Representative  Dist. 77            OPEN
State Representative  Dist. 78       Holli Sullivan
VANDERBURGH
Clerk of the Circuit Court             Carla Hayden
County Recorder                           Debbie Stucki
County Treasurer                          Dottie Thomas
County Coroner                                  OPEN
County Surveyor                          Linda Freeman
County Commissioner Dist. 1      Zachary Rascher
County Commissioner Dist. 3      Randall Chapman
(Vote for 1)                            Cheryl Musgrave (incumbent)
County Council At-Large            Billy D. Garrett
   (Vote for not more than 3)                Jill Hahn
        Joe Kiefer (incumbent)
        Angela Koehler Lindsey (incumbent)

  
The VCRP is currently filling poll worker positions for the May 5, 2020 Primary Election. To be a poll workers you must be a registered voter residing in Vanderburgh County. Additionally, poll workers cannot be a close relative to a candidate whose name appears on the ballot, and cannot be the chairman or treasurer of the committee of the candidate whose name appears on the ballot.
Vote Center Poll Worker compensation is $275 for Inspectors, $195 for Republican Judges and$195 for Republican Clerks. Training is a requirement.   For more information or to volunteer to be a Republican poll worker contact the Vanderburgh County GOP at 812-425-8207 or Email VCRP Political Director Mary Jo Kaiser at beamerjo59@gmail.com

  Kiefer Fundraiser This Thursday, March 5, 2020:


Print Flyer

 County Council Meeting-   Date: Wednesday, March 4, 2020

  

 
   Time: 3:30 PM
Location: Room 301, Civic Center Complex
                1 NW Martin Luther King Blvd, Evansville
 For more information visit

County Council

 City Council Meeting-      Date: Monday, March 9, 2020
     Time: 5:30 PM
Location: Room 301, Civic Center Complex
                1 NW Martin Luther King Blvd, Evansville
 For more information visit

City Council

EVSC Board of School Trustees Meeting-
  Date: March 9, 2020
             Time: 5:30 PM
 Location: Board Room, EVSC Administration Building
                  951 Walnut St., Evansville
For more information visit the Board of School Trustees web page.

 County Commission Meeting-      Date: Tuesday, March 10, 2020
     Time: 3:00 PM
Location: Room 301, Civic Center Complex
                1 NW Martin Luther King Blvd, Evansville
 For more information visit

County Commissioners

VCRP Central Committee Meeting-      Date: Wednesday, March 11, 2020
Time: 11:30AM
    Location: GOP Headquarters
   815 John Street, Evansville
  Meetings are open to all Vanderburgh County Precinct Committeemen

Meet Your Legislators – Saturday, March 14, 2020
Time: 9:15 AM (doors open at 9:00 AM)
Location:Central Library- Browning Rooms
200 SE ML King BLVD, Evansville
Local state legislators are invited to make themselves available to answer questions on the second Saturday of each month during each legislative session. This is the final meeting for 2020.

VCRP Monthly Breakfast  -  Date: March 21, 2020
Time: 7:30 AM doors open / 8:00 AM Program
Location:  C.K. Newsome Center , Room 118A-B
    100 Walnut Street, Evansville, IN 47713
 For more information contact Mary Jo Kaiser at 812-425-8207 or email beamerjo59@gmail.com

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Are you looking for an opportunity to help your Indiana Republican Party and make a differencein the lives of Hoosiers? Then look no further! We are looking for enthusiastic and motivated Republicans to join our grassroots team as field organizers and political interns!
Learn more at Join Our Team!

Join Us at the 2020 Indiana Republican State Convention
The Indiana Republican State Convention will be June 19-20 in Indianapolis. We’ve updated our website with information you’ll need about state convention, so if you’re planning to attend, make sure to check it out.
Get Convention information HERE.

Ensuring elections are safe from cyber threats (from 2/28/20 News Update)

Our elections are increasingly reliant upon technology as a means of efficiency and convenience for Hoosiers. However, we have to be extra vigilant in defending our democratic process from cyber attacks.  I sponsored a cybersecurity bill that would help further protect Indiana election and security systems statewide by requiring counties and the secretary of state to provide another layer of security for local election departments. Under this bill, new cybersecurity software would help monitor internet traffic accessing websites and databases to eliminate threats.

As we head into the 2020 elections, this extra measure could help increase voter confidence and ensure the integrity of the election system is not compromised. Indiana continues to be a leader in ensuring the security of its elections.The proposal has passed the Senate and is being deliberated upon in the House. Please let me know if you have any questions about this or any other legislation by contacting me at h78@iga.in.gov or 1-800-382-9841.

Saving lives through Indiana’s Safe Haven Laws
Indiana is now leading the nation in the number of baby boxes, with 21 installed throughout the state, and more communities are working to add them. If a Safe Haven Baby Box is not available, parents can still legally surrender their infant under the Safe Haven Law. This law allows people to anonymously leave infants younger than 30 days old with emergency service providers with no questions asked, as long as the child shows no signs of abuse.

Bill protecting seniors, minors from exploitation heads to governor
The House of Representatives voted in support of a bill sponsored by State Rep. Wendy McNamara that would help protect vulnerable Hoosiers from financial exploitation.
McNamara said exploitation is the fastest growing and most common type of elder abuse, and exploitation of minors is also a concern. Examples include foster children who have their Supplemental Security Income erroneously used by their parents, or senior citizens suffering from diseases like Alzheimer’s being preyed upon.
Learn more HERE

 
Follow Bills introduced during the 2020 General Assembly Legislative Session  HERE

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Young Calls for Passage of Two Pro-Life Bills to Protect Innocent Children: (from 02/25/20 News Release)

U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) today spoke about protecting the rights of unborn children and the need to pass two bills being voted on in the Senate today: the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act and the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act. Senator Young is a cosponsor of both bills.

“Pro-life principles are supported by a majority of Americans and these bills are critical to protect all of our children,” said Senator Young. “Last year in Indiana, the horrific discovery of more than 2,000 aborted children was made in the basement of the late South Bend abortionist Dr. Klopfer. This sickening discovery underscores how important it is for our colleagues to join with us to protect innocent life. We need to come together and pass these bills for the sake of our children.”

 “The Johns Hopkins, – is a highly respected, great place – they did a study, comprehensive: The Countries Best and Worst Prepared for an Epidemic. And the United States is now – we’re rated number one.  We’re rated number one for being prepared”   President Trump (February 26, 2020)
President Trump places Vice-President Mike Pence in charge of Coronavirus Task Force.

 
Stay in touch with GOP members of Congress representing our area (click links below):

Visit the Vanderburgh GOP 

page for daily updates.

  Mark Your calendar                CLICK on event for more information
March 4 (3:30 pm)
March 5 (5:30 pm) Kiefer for County Council Fundraiser
March 9 (5:30 pm) City Council Meeting
March 9 (5:30 pm) EVSC Board of Trustees Meeting
March 10  (3:00 pm) County Commission Meeting
March 14 (9:15 am) Meet Your Legislators
March 21 (7:30am) VCRP Monthly Breakfast
April 6
Voter Registration Ends
April 7
Early Voting at the Election Office Begins

  Make sure you add vandygop@gmail.com to your address book so we’ll be sure to land in your inbox!

If you have any questions, contact Mary Jo Kaiser, VCRP Political Director, at

or (812) 425-8207.
for more info. Thank you.
Paid for by the Vanderburgh County Republican Party, Farley Smith, Treasurer

Rep. Jim Baird Introduces Forgotten Vietnam Veterans Act

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Representative Jim Baird (R-IN) along with his colleagues Reps. TJ Cox (D-CA), Brian Mast (R-FL), Chip Roy (R-TX) Dean Phillips (D-MN), and Max Rose (D-NY) introduced Forgotten Vietnam Veterans Act which extends wartime veterans benefits, including the Veterans Pension and health care, to the nearly 3,000 officers and enlisted men who served in the US Military Assistance Advisory Group (MAAG). These brave men served during the Vietnam War but are currently ineligible for many of these benefits because the Department of Veterans Affairs only recognizes the Vietnam War Era from February 28, 1961 to May 7, 1975.

This legislation looks to change the time period and have the VA recognize the men of the US Military Assistance Advisory Group as Vietnam War Veterans. This will allow these veterans to receive the benefits they’ve earned.

“We are indebted to those who defended our Country during the Vietnam War. They placed duty to Country over themselves and sacrificed so others wouldn’t have to. Our Country can never repay that debt, but we can ensure these brave veterans receive the benefits they deserve,” said Rep. Baird.

“Anyone who has served our country in times of war deserves our respect and the benefits they earned,” said Rep. Cox. “The brave servicemen in the US Military Assistance Advisory Group have not been given the benefits they are entitled to. This legislation will right that wrong.”

“The men and women who put on the uniform to defend our nation during the Vietnam War made the decision to put country before self. We will never be able to repay them for their sacrifice but ensuring those who served in Vietnam have access to the benefits they earned is the least we can do,” Rep. Mast said. “That’s what this bill is all about.”

 “The brave soldiers who selflessly fought in Vietnam deserve our full and unwavering support. This legislation ensures that all those who fought in Vietnam get the benefits they deserve,” said Rep. Roy.

“As a Gold Star Son who lost my father in the Vietnam War, veteran and military issues are deeply important to me,” said Rep. Phillips. “Our nation has always found the resources to go to war, and we must also find the resources necessary to provide the support our veterans deserve when they come home. This bill ensures that those who served get the benefits they have earned.”

“Whenever our soldiers sign up to go to war, it’s a commitment that should be a two-way street: they promise to put their lives on the line for their country, and we promise that we’ll always have their backs when they come home,” said Rep. Rose. “This bill is our chance to make good on that promise, and I’m proud to support making sure these heroes get the benefits they deserve.”

The Forgotten Vietnam Veterans Act is also supported by the Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion.

“More than 3,000 veterans served in Vietnam from November 1, 1955 to February 27, 1961, ten of whom were killed in action,” said Matthew Doyle, Associate Director National Legislative Service, Veterans of Foreign Wars.  “However, veterans who served in Vietnam prior to February 28, 1961 are not considered wartime veterans and likewise are ineligible for certain VA benefits.  The VFW is proud to support this legislation, which would change the statutory definition of Vietnam veteran to include those who served in the Republic of Vietnam beginning on November 1, 1955.”

 

AG Curtis Hill: Supreme Court Should Preserve States’ Authority To Fight Rising Drug Costs

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Attorney General Curtis Hill said today that states must be permitted to regulate pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) in order to fight soaring prescription drug costs. In a filing to the U.S. Supreme Court, he and 45 other attorneys general are supporting efforts by the state of Arkansas to defend this prerogative.

While few people are even familiar with the term “PBMs,” roughly four out of five Americans get their prescription drugs through them. PBMs reimburse pharmacies on behalf of health care plans and, in turn, bill those plans for their beneficiaries’ prescriptions.

Although they initially played a modest role in the U.S. health care system, certain business practices of modern PBMs have had profound consequences for pharmacies, patients and states alike.

In 2015, Arkansas adopted a statute that requires PBMs to raise their reimbursement rate for a drug if that rate is below a pharmacy’s primary wholesaler’s price. The law also created an appeal process for pharmacies to challenge PBMs’ reimbursement rates.

Shortly after the law was passed, a trade association of PBMs challenged the statute, arguing it was preempted by a federal law — the Employment Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals agreed with the trade association. Arkansas, though, petitioned for a review of the case by the U.S. Supreme Court, which was granted Jan. 10.

“Although this case centers on the state of Arkansas, an unfavorable ruling could jeopardize other states’ efforts to regulate PBMs,” Attorney General Hill said. “The Supreme Court should preserve states’ authority to fight rising prescription drug costs.”

In 2018, the Indiana General Assembly passed a statute that imposes transparency requirements on PBMs. Because Indiana’s law could also face an ERISA preemption challenge, Attorney General Hill said, Indiana has a strong interest in supporting Arkansas in this case.

The brief in Rutledge v. Pharmaceutical Care Management Association argues that there are compelling policy reasons why so many states have undertaken efforts to regulate PBMs. It also argues that ERISA does not preempt the regulation of relationships between PBMs and pharmacies because PBMs are not ERISA plans. Rather, the brief argues, PBMs are third-party businesses that contract with many different parties, including ERISA plans.

Lawmakers Race To Wrap Up Legislation Before Final Week Of 2020 Session

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Lawmakers Race To Wrap Up Legislation Before Final Week Of 2020 Session

March 3, 2020   Posted by:

Staff Report
TheStatehouseFile.com

INDIANAPOLIS—Legislation regulating panhandling, IndyGo, syringe exchanges and charter schools advanced out of the Senate Tuesday, the last day bills could be heard in either chamber. Among the bills that were passed:

Senate Bill 335: Criminal law issues, including panhandling.

What it does: SB 335 covers many changes in criminal law, including to crack down on panhandling. The bill makes it a Class C misdemeanor to panhandle within 50 feet of the entrance or exit to a bank, business, restaurant, anywhere where a financial transaction occurs or a public monument, in addition to all the other limitation on panhandling currently in Indiana law. Among other provisions, the bill adds strangulation and domestic battery to the definition of crimes of violence and makes it a Level 6 felony to possess a firearm with a tampered serial code.

What happened: The bill passed the House 85-10. Rep. Vernon Smith, D-Gary, raised concerns about the panhandling changes and its impact on the homeless population within Indianapolis. Rep. Wendy McNamara, the Evansville Republican who sponsored the bill in the house, said this was not targeted at the homeless but instead at aggressive panhandlers who block a person on a sidewalk or follow them.

What’s next: The bill will return to the Senate for a vote on whether to concur with any changes in the House, sending the bill then to the governor, or to dissent and send the bill to a conference committee to reach agreement on a final version.

* * *

House Bill 1279: Allows nonprofits in Northwest Indiana to carry out transit development and enacts penalties for IndyGo, the Indianapolis transit system.

What it does: HB 1279, authored by Sen. Ryan Mishler, R-Bremen, would allow the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority to establish a nonprofit to carry out plans in transit development districts. When the bill made it to the Senate, Sen. Aaron Freeman, R-Indianapolis, offered an amendment that would impose penalties for IndyGo, if it doesn’t pay 10% of its operating costs of the Red Line, the express transit service, from private funds by the end of 2020. The penalties were set in place when legislation was passed in 2014 allowing Indianapolis to offer a referendum on mass transit in Marion County.

What happened: HB 1279 passed the Senate with a 43-7 vote. Sen. Karen Tallian, D-Ogden Dunes, said she voted yes on the bill because of the economic development in Northwest Indiana. She said, however, that she hopes the language regarding IndyGo is removed from the bill in conference committees. Sen. Mike Bohacek, R-Michiana Shores, said the bill would greatly impact his northwestern district, and that it was too big of a bill to vote against.

What’s next: The difference between the House and Senate versions of the bill are expected to be hashed out in a conference committee.

* * *

Senate Bill 178: Covers a range of election matters

What it does: SB 178 covers a number of election regulations, but the most controversial would prevent anyone from holding the attorney general’s office if his or her law license has been suspended for more than 30 days in the previous five years. What’s more, it would prevent that individual from running for office.

What happened: SB 178 passed the House by 82-14 vote and targets Attorney General Curtis Hill, who faces punishment from the state’s Disciplinary Commission on charges he grabbed and groped four women at a legislative gathering two years ago. Rep. John Bartlett, D-Indianapolis, argued against the bill, saying he didn’t believe that lawmakers should be enacting legislation that affects one person—Hill. Rep. Timothy Wesco, R-Osceola, who offered the amendment targeting Hill, raised the question: “What is the standard we find acceptable?” A hearing officer in Hill’s disciplinary case has recommended that his license be suspended for 60 days without an automatic renewal. Hill is seeking re-election.

What’s next: The bill will now return to Senate for a vote on whether to agree with the changes from  the House. If the Senate concurs the bill would go to the governor or if there is a dissent, SB 178 would go to a conference committee to reach agreement on a final version.

* * *

Senate Bill 4: Health programs

What it does: A provision of SB 4 deals extends by one year syringe exchange programs, which were set to expire on July 1, 2021. In addition, the bill requires those operating syringe exchange programs to test for communicable diseases. A separate section of the bill bars the Family and Social Services Administration from implementing a managed care program for those eligible for nursing facility services as well as being eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid until June 20, 2021.

What happened: The bill passed the House by an 82-2 vote. An earlier effort to extend the syringe exchange program indefinitely failed. Now, it will expire July 1, 2022, a year later than originally planned. Rep. Cindy Kirchhofer, R-Beech Grove, House sponsor of the bill, noted that the latest version also includes requirements for testing and treating communicable diseases. Rep. Rita Fleming, D-Jeffersonville, said that the syringe exchange program was something that had a profound impact on her community, and that testing for diseases such as HIV is extremely important.

What’s next: SB 4 will now move go to the governor’s office for review and signature.

* * *

House Bill 1066: Charter school accountability

What it does: The bill would revoke charter schools ability to operate and require them to reimburse the state should any funding irregularities be found. It also requires all schools to submit a report due by Dec. 1 of this year looking at the enrollment count and completion data, gives preference to students for admission.

What happened: The bill passed the Senate 42-8. Sen. Greg Taylor, D-Indianapolis, opposed the bill because he said the legislation is not directly addressing the situation at two virtual schools. A state audit found that officials from two Indiana virtual charter schools misspent more than $85 million in state funding by inflating enrollment and funneling millions to a related companies. “Folks, this is not political,” Taylor said. “As a fiscal conservative myself I am tired of people stealing from the citizens of the state of Indiana. They stole from our citizens.”

What’s next: The bill now returns to the House. If that chamber dissents from Senate changes it will go to a conference committee to hammer out a final version. If the House concurs with any changes, the bill goes to the governor for his consideration.

* * *

Senate Bill 229: Maintenance of regulated drains

What it does: SB 229 would not require a permit from the Indiana Department of Environmental Management to reconstruct or repair a regulated drain that might be in a wetland area.

What happened: The bill passed the House by a 58-37 vote. Rep. David Wolkins, R-Warsaw, said the intention of SB 229 is to allow drains to be quickly fixed without the landowner having to apply for a permit. Rep. Sue Errington, D-Muncie, said the bill could have an impact on wetlands where some of the drains might be located and she is concerned about creating exceptions to the state’s wetlands regulations.

What’s next: The bill will return to the Senate and if that chamber dissents from House changes it will go to a conference committee to hammer out a final version. If the Senate concurs with the changes, the bill goes to the governor for his consideration.

* * *

House Bill 1157: Driving privileges

What it does: The bill requires that if a motorist refuses to take a breathalyzer test, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles must remove any record of a suspension from a defendant charged with operating while intoxicated who wins the case. If the defendant loses, after 180 days he or she can apply for specialized driving privileges if this is a first offense.

What happened: HB 1157 passed the Senate by a 37-13 vote. Sen. Erin Houchin, R-Salem, opposed the bill because she said it could have a negative impact on Indiana’s implied consent law. “Across the country, if you are driving in the state of Indiana you imply consent for the test for intoxication if a police officer has probable cause to believe you are intoxicated,” she said. Sen. Greg Taylor, D-Indianapolis, spoke in favor of the bill because if breathalyzers have not been calibrated in the last 90 days it is considered off and they can be unreliable.

What’s next: The bill now returns to the House. If that chamber dissents from Senate changes, it will go to a conference committee to hammer out a final version. If the House concurs with the changes, the bill goes to the governor for his consideration.

* * *

House Bill 1414: Electric generation

What it does: The bill puts a pause on any additional coal plant closures during 2020 while the 21st Century Energy Task Force is completing its work. These provisions expire Dec. 31 of this year.

ord

What happened: The bill passed 37-11. Among those opposing it was Sen. J.D. Ford, D-Indianapolis, who said the bill should be referred back to the task force to let it work through whatever Indiana’s energy policy is going to be. “Our utilities are asking us to help them retire coal facilities and we should not stand in the way of letting him do this,” he said. Ford also Indiana potentially could see billions of dollars in savings in the coming decades by transitioning to other energy sources. Sen. Mark Messmer, the Jasper Republican who sponsored the bill in the Senate, R-Jasper, said nothing in this bill derails the retirement of coal facilities or raises utility rates, but he argued that the use of coal for power generation will be here for a long time.

What’s next: The bill now returns to the House. If that chamber dissents from Senate changes it will go to a conference committee to hammer out a final version. If the House concurs with any changes, the bill goes to the governor for his consideration.

Haley Carney, Lacey Watt and Victoria Ratliff contributed to this report. They are reporters for TheStatehousefile.com, a news website powered by Franklin College journalism.

House Amendment Could Force Attorney General Hill From Office

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By Lacey Watt
TheStatehouseFile.com

INDIANAPOLIS—Attorney General Curtis Hill doesn’t have many friends in the Indiana State House of Representatives.

Monday, the House adopted an amendment to Senate Bill 178 that would bar anyone from holding the attorney general’s office if their law license has been suspended for more than 30 days in the previous five years and further prevent them from running for office.

The amendment, authored by Rep. Timothy Wesco, R-Osceola, passed the House by 83-9 vote. It clearly targets Hill, who faces a suspension of his law license following a Supreme Court disciplinary hearing where there was testimony he grabbed and groped four women at a legislative party in 2018.

Rep. Timothy Wesco, R-Osceola, argues for the amendment that would bar a person with a suspended law license from serving as attorney general. Photo by Alexa Shrake, TheStatehouseFile.com

“We must address this question,” Wesco said in offering the amendment to the miscellaneous election bill. “Is it acceptable for the attorney general of the state of Indiana to hold a suspended law license?”

Rep. Ed DeLaney, D-Indianapolis, asked Wesco to confirm that the amendment would apply to the current Supreme Court disciplinary case against Hill, who is also seeking a second term as attorney general.

The four women—three legislative staff members and one lawmaker—testified before a state Supreme Court disciplinary hearing in October that a drunken Hill groped them at the party.

Last month, former Indiana Supreme Court Justice Myra Selby recommended that Hill be suspended for 60 days without an automatic reinstatement, which could mean he could be without his law license much longer than the suspension period. Selby served as the hearing officer for the Disciplinary Commission and the final decision about Hill’s punishment rests with the five justices of the state Supreme Court.

“This is impeachment in disguise,” said Delaney, who subsequently voted for the amendment.

Rep. Vernon Smith, D-Gary, was one of the few no votes in the House.

“I think they are trying to disguise the fact that they don’t want him on the ticket and it’s political,” Smith said after the vote. “It’s not because it is what is good for that particular office.”

Attorney General Curtis Hill Photo by Eddie Drews, TheStatehouseFile.com

As House members debated the amendment that could eventually force Hill from office, U.S. District Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson delivered better news to the attorney general. In a 37-page opinion, she dismissed a federal lawsuit filed against Hill and the state of Indiana because the women weren’t directly employed by Hill, which is required under the law.

Calling Hill’s conduct at the end of session party “disgraceful and reprehensible,” she wrote, “But the highly offensive nature of the alleged acts does not meet the legal standard necessary to establish a violation of any federal law or the Constitution of the United States by Attorney General Curtis Hill.”

She did leave open a way for the women to take some of their claims to state court.

Meanwhile, Hill is among the three candidates seeking the Republican nomination for attorney general. The other two are John Westercamp and former Indiana Department of Revenue Commissioner Adam Krupp. The candidate who will appear on the November ballot will be chosen at a state party convention in June.

FOOTNOTE: Lacey Watt is a reporter for TheStatehouseFile.com, a news website powered by Franklin College journalism students.

MARCH 2020 NEW HARMONY GAZETTE

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New Harmony Gazette March 2020

UE Volleyball Announces 2020 Camp Schedule

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Numerous Options Available In July

University of Evansville head volleyball coach Fernando Morales and his staff have announced the schedule for their 2020 camps.  Five camp sessions are available and provide opportunities for volleyball players in kindergarten through 12th grade.

“Come live the full experience of an NCAA division 1 volleyball program.  Practice and train with them and like them,” Morales exclaimed about the camp experience.  “The Evansville Aces had a historic season in 2019 reaching the MVC conference tournament for the first time in 11 years and having a winning season for the first time in 10 years.  Join them as they start preparing for the 2020 season trying to build up from last season’s great experience.”

To register for the camps, please visit www.acesvolleyballcamps.com. All camps will be held at Meeks Family Fieldhouse on the UE campus.  If there are any questions, please contact volleyball@evansville.edu.

The 2020 camp sessions consist of:

All-Skills Camp (K-6th grade)

-       Date and Time of Clinics/Camps: July 16-17th at 8 am-12 pm

-       Cost of Clinics/Camps: $120

-       Specific Grades/Ages/Gender for Camps/Clinics: (K-6th grade)

Camp Descriptions:  This camp will be focused on teaching players entering Kinder to 8th grade the essential volleyball skills in order to become mechanically efficient by emphasizing on technical training. The main goal is to give individual attention to each camper. For each camp, participants will be placed into groups of similar experience and skill, making sure that all campers are able to maximize their potential in accordance to their development phase and age. Open to any and all entrants (limited only by number, age, grade level and/or gender).

College Prep Camp (9th-12th grade)

-       Dates: July 16-17th at 1-6 pm

-       Price: $135

This camp is designed for high school players aspiring to play at the college level. Advanced individual skills and elite game-like drills will be the main focus of this camp. The main goal is to give individual attention to each camper AND PROVIDE THEM WITH A COLLEGE-LEVEL PERSPECTIVE OF THE GAME. For each camp, participants will be placed into groups of similar experience and skill, making sure that all campers are able to maximize their potential in accordance to their development phase and age. Open to any and all entrants (limited only by number, age, grade level and/or gender).

All-Skills Camp (7th-12th grade):

 -       Dates: July 18-19th at 8 am-12 pm

-       Price: $120

This camp will be focused on teaching players entering 9th to 12th grade the essential volleyball skills in order to become mechanically efficient by emphasizing on technical training. The main goal is to give individual attention to each camper. For each camp, participants will be placed into groups of similar experience and skill, making sure that all campers are able to maximize their potential in accordance to their development phase and age. Open to any and all entrants (limited only by number, age, grade level and/or gender).

Serving, Passing, Digging Camp (6th-12th grade):

-       Dates: July 18th at 1-4 pm

-       Price: $65

This camp is designed for players looking to improve their serve-receive, defense, and serving skills through technical and tactical focus. Campers will receive a high volume of repetitions through individual and small group drills. Open to any and all entrants (limited only by number, age, grade level and/or gender).

Setting Camp (6th-12th grade):

-       Dates: July 19th at 1-4 pm

-       Price: $65

-        This camp is designed for fundamental skill development at the setting position. Setters will focus on technical/tactical aspects through position-specific training and the high volume of repetitions. Open to any and all entrants (limited only by number, age, grade level and/or gender).

 

EPA Publishes “Story Map” Illustrating Progress and Continued Efforts to Protect America’s Waters

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at an event hosted by the National Ground Water Association in Washington, D.C., U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Assistant Administrator for Water Dave Ross highlighted the agency’s efforts to  protect the nation’s waters as part of EPA’s 50th anniversary celebration. Throughout the month of February, EPA highlighted accomplishments and issued new announcements that demonstrate the agency’s continued commitment to drinking water and surface water protection. Today, EPA published a “story map” to illustrate progress and continued efforts to protect America’s waters.

“EPA’s new story map celebrates the significant progress we have made in protecting our nation’s waters to help support our health, our environment and our economy,” said EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Dave Ross. “Throughout February, the agency also made significant announcements that demonstrate its ongoing efforts to protect our nation’s waters—including meeting emerging challenges.”

The agency’s new story map underscores the progress that EPA has made to protect America’s waters. For example, it highlights that 92 percent of the population is served by community water systems that meet all health-based standards, while the agency acknowledges the additional work necessary to improve compliance. The story map also shows that 250,000 acres of lakes and ponds and 10,000 miles of rivers and streams have been partially or fully restored since 2005. It notes that supporting clean water often comes in the form of water infrastructure investments and that the EPA-supported State Revolving Funds have provided $180 billion to help fund over 15,000 drinking water projects and 41,000 wastewater and stormwater infrastructure projects across the nation. Additionally, the story map summarizes progress under the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) program, commemorating that through 2019 EPA issued 14 WIFIA loans that provide $3.5 billion to help finance more than $8 billion for water infrastructure projects and create more than 15,000 jobs.

The story map also demonstrates the importance of the agency’s continued efforts and February’s focus on taking action to continue protecting our waters while supporting a strong economy, now and for future generations. For example, EPA announced $40 million to further reduce lead in drinking water and $1.8 million for innovative, market-based nutrient reduction projects in the Great Lakes basin. The agency also announced two new WIFIA loan closings—for Toho Water Authority in Florida ($40 million) and Coachella Valley Water District in California ($59 million). Additionally, EPA took an important step in implementing the Agency’s PFAS Action Plan by proposing regulatory determinations for perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in drinking water. EPA and its federal, state, tribal, local and water sector partners ended the monthlong look at water by announcing the National Water Reuse Action Plan: Collaborative Implementation (Version 1), which includes commitments that will help strengthen the sustainability, security and resilience of our nation’s water resources by promoting water reuse.

To view the “story map” and learn more about EPA’s 50th Anniversary and how the agency is protecting America’s waters, visit: www.epa.gov/50 and ​Water Story Map

VANDERBURGH COUNTY FELONY CHARGES

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 Evansville, IN – Below are the felony cases to be filed by the Vanderburgh County Prosecutor’s Office today.

Mark Wayne Garrett: Operating a motor vehicle after forfeiture of license for life (Level 5 Felony), Operating a vehicle as a habitual traffic violator (Level 6 Felony)

Bruce William Hampton: Intimidation (Level 5 Felony), Criminal mischief (Class B misdemeanor)

Kelsie Lynn Legrange: Theft (Level 6 Felony), Possession of a controlled substance (Class A misdemeanor)

Devin Garrett Oliver: Possession of a narcotic drug (Level 6 Felony)

Stephen Denzel Layne: Attempt Obstruction of justice (Level 6 Felony), Possession of marijuana (Class A misdemeanor)

April Denise Johnson: Residential entry (Level 6 Felony), Criminal mischief (Class B misdemeanor)

Jeremiah R. Bass: Burglary (Level 4 Felony), Stalking (Level 5 Felony), Stalking (Level 6 Felony), Invasion of privacy (Class A misdemeanor)

Cody Michael Brown: Domestic battery (Level 6 Felony), Domestic battery (Level 6 Felony)

Tasha Simone Heck: Burglary (Level 5 Felony), Forgery (Level 6 Felony), Theft (Level 6 Felony)

Michael Joseph Shepard: Intimidation (Level 6 Felony), Public intoxication (Class B misdemeanor)

Kurt L. Smallings: Possession of methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony)

Aaron James Scarbrough: Possession of methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony)

Brian Emoji Adams: Theft of a firearm (Level 6 Felony), Maintaining a common nuisance – controlled substances (Level 6 Felony)

Jose Martinez Crosby: Theft of a firearm (Level 6 Felony), Maintaining a common nuisance – controlled substances (Level 6 Felony)

Kwan Andre Short: Theft of a firearm (Level 6 Felony), Maintaining a common nuisance – controlled substances (Level 6 Felony)

Kashia Mystique Morris: Theft of a firearm (Level 6 Felony), Maintaining a common nuisance – controlled substances (Level 6 Felony)

Andrew Raymond Scott: Theft of a firearm (Level 6 Felony), Maintaining a common nuisance – controlled substances (Level 6 Felony)

William Coleman: Theft of a firearm (Level 6 Felony), Maintaining a common nuisance – controlled substances (Level 6 Felony)

Bryant D. Halter: Attempt Residential entry (Level 6 Felony), Criminal mischief (Class B misdemeanor)

Kristie Lee Perry: Theft (Level 6 Felony)

Tonya Lynn Middleton: Assisting a criminal (Level 5 Felony)

Matthew Thomas Adams: Auto theft (Level 6 Felony), Theft (Level 6 Felony)

Elliot M. Kress: Domestic battery (Level 6 Felony)

Shirley L. Frazier: Criminal recklessness (Level 6 Felony), Intimidation (Level 6 Felony), Battery resulting in bodily injury (Class A misdemeanor), Criminal mischief (Class B misdemeanor)

Randy Keith Mccandless: Dealing in methamphetamine (Level 2 Felony), Unlawful possession of syringe (Level 6 Felony)

Leonte Devaujhn Pace-Overton: Resisting law enforcement (Level 6 Felony), Reckless driving (Class C misdemeanor)

Anthony Brian Small: Criminal confinement (Level 6 Felony), Intimidation (Level 6 Felony)

Tosha Marie Hallman: Domestic battery (Level 5 Felony), Theft (Level 6 Felony)

Jeffrey Scott Vangordon: Operating a vehicle with an ACE of 0.08 or more (Level 6 Felony)

Harvey Brian Mussard: Operating a vehicle as a habitual traffic violator (Level 6 Felony)

Melissa Ann McIntosh: Possession of methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony)

George James Robertson: Dealing in a look-a-like substance (Level 6 Felony)

Jonathan Jade Smith: Dealing in a narcotic drug (Level 4 Felony), Dealing in a narcotic drug (Level 5 Felony), Possession of marijuana (Class B misdemeanor)

Leon Casillas: Possession of a narcotic drug (Level 5 Felony), Possession of a narcotic drug (Level 5 Felony)

Derrick Roberts: Possession of methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony), Possession of a precursor (Level 6 Felony)

Lindsey Jo Fields: Attempt Obstruction of justice (Level 6 Felony), Possession of marijuana (Class B misdemeanor)

Terronta L. Booker: Unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon (Level 4 Felony), Resisting law enforcement (Level 6 Felony)

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