12/16 Torchbearer Weekly Policy Update
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- Mike Speedy appointed as Indiana's Secretary of Business Affairs
- Jennifer-Ruth Green named Indiana's Secretary of Public Safety
- Indiana Suzanne Jaworowski appointed as Indiana's Energy Secretary
- Gloria Sachdev and Anthony Scott join Braun's Cabinet
- Indiana's Medicaid Dilemma
- Holcomb Celebrates Record Investment
- Indiana's Child Care and Medicaid Waitlist Challenges
- Indiana Revenue Shortfall Persists
- Share the Torchbearer Newsletter with Your Network!
- Important Dates
Mike Speedy appointed as Indiana's Secretary of Business Affairs
Gov.-elect Mike Braun has appointed former Rep. Mike Speedy as Indiana's next Secretary of Business Affairs. Speedy will manage the state's regulatory framework, ensuring businesses operate safely and efficiently.
Why it matters: Speedy's extensive background in business and public service positions him to drive economic growth in Indiana. His experience in real estate and finance will aid in creating a business-friendly environment.
Driving the news: Speedy led Braun's commerce-focused transition council, aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and economic opportunities across Indiana. His leadership will focus on reducing bureaucratic hurdles and streamlining government processes.
The bottom line: Speedy's appointment is part of a broader strategy by Braun to enhance Indiana's economic landscape, with a focus on entrepreneurship and community development. (Indiana Capital Chronicle)
Jennifer-Ruth Green named Indiana's Secretary of Public Safety
Gov.-elect Mike Braun has appointed Jennifer-Ruth Green as Indiana's Secretary of Public Safety. Green, a combat veteran and current Deputy Commander at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, brings extensive military and cybersecurity expertise to the role.
Why it matters: Green's appointment aims to enhance Indiana's homeland security and support law enforcement with her strategic leadership. Her background as the commander of the 122nd Cyber Operations Flight in Fort Wayne as well as a deployment to Baghdad with the Multi-National Security Transition Command-Iraq will help protect Hoosier families effectively.
Driving the news: As Secretary, Green will oversee critical agencies, including the Indiana Department of Correction and Homeland Security. Her focus will be on combating drug trafficking and supporting law enforcement partnerships.
What’s next: Green plans to bring a comprehensive approach to public safety, emphasizing training and resource enhancement for public safety personnel. Her leadership is expected to foster stronger community-law enforcement relationships and boost emergency preparedness. (Indiana Capital Chronicle)
Suzanne Jaworowski appointed as Indiana's Energy Secretary
Gov.-elect Mike Braun has named Suzanne Jaworowski as Indiana's Secretary of Energy and Natural Resources. Jaworowski brings extensive experience from both government and industry, having worked for President-elect Donald Trump and a coal company.
Why it matters: Jaworowski's appointment is crucial for shaping Indiana's energy future. Her role will focus on ensuring reliable and affordable energy solutions for Hoosiers while fostering new development opportunities.
Driving the news: Jaworowski will oversee key agencies including the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission. Her expertise is expected to address Indiana's energy challenges and improve accessibility across the state.
The bottom line: With her diverse background, Jaworowski aims to maintain a diverse energy portfolio that supports economic growth and job creation, ensuring Indiana remains at the forefront of energy innovation. (Indiana Capital Chronicle)
Gloria Sachdev and Anthony Scott join Braun's Cabinet
Gov.-elect Mike Braun has appointed Gloria Sachdev and Anthony Scott to key positions in his cabinet. Sachdev will serve as Secretary of Health and Family Services, while Scott will lead the Indiana State Police.
Why it matters: Sachdev's expertise in healthcare reform and cost transparency will drive Indiana's health initiatives. Scott's extensive experience with the Indiana State Police will enhance public safety across the state.
Driving the news: Sachdev, known for her advocacy in healthcare reform, will oversee major state departments like Health and Family Services. Scott, with a 30-year career in law enforcement, will focus on public safety and community partnerships.
What’s next: Under Braun's leadership, Sachdev and Scott will aim to improve healthcare access and ensure safety for Hoosiers. Their strategic roles are expected to bring innovative solutions and effective leadership to Indiana's government. (Indiana Capital Chronicle)
Indiana's Medicaid Dilemma
The Holcomb administration revealed a nearly $1 billion shortfall in Indiana's Medicaid program.
Why it matters:
- Medicaid is the second-largest and fastest-growing item in the state budget, impacting a significant portion of Indiana's population.
- Lawmakers need to address this shortfall to ensure the program's sustainability and the well-being of its recipients.
The big picture:
- The Medicaid Oversight Committee, expected to review and recommend solutions, has not released any recommendations for the second year in a row.
- This inaction raises concerns about the program's future and the state's financial planning.
What’s next:
- The State Budget Committee will review state tax revenue and Medicaid spending forecasts, providing lawmakers with essential data to begin crafting legislation in January.
- Key legislative figures will likely break down solutions into multiple steps, with the first legislative actions expected in 2025. (IBJ)
Holcomb Celebrates Record Investment
INDIANAPOLIS - Gov. Eric Holcomb marked his last Indiana Economic Development Corp. board meeting by celebrating a record-breaking $39.1 billion in planned private capital investments for the year.
Why it matters:
- The investments highlight Indiana's growing economic strength and potential for job creation.
- Continued growth could enhance opportunities for local businesses and residents.
The big picture:
- Since Holcomb took office, annual investment totals have increased every year, except during the pandemic.
- This year alone, 163 projects are expected to create nearly 17,000 jobs with an average wage of $36.11 per hour.
What’s next:
- Indiana is pursuing another $10 billion in deals, expected to close within a year.
- Gov.-elect Mike Braun's administration is set to continue the momentum in economic development. (IIB)
Indiana's Child Care and Medicaid Waitlist Challenges
Two separate waitlists overseen by the Family and Social Services Agency (FSSA) are delaying critical health and child care services for Hoosiers in need. Now, a third waitlist has been added for applicants seeking child care services under the Child Care Development Fund and On My Way Pre-K.
Why it matters:
- These delays affect low-income families, risking workforce participation and economic contributions.
- Without subsidies, families may be forced to drop out of the workforce, stalling professional development and impacting the local economy.
The big picture:
- More than 12,000 Hoosiers are waiting for Medicaid waiver services, critical for aging and disabled individuals.
- The child care voucher waitlist is the first since 2018, highlighting funding constraints and systemic issues.
Key reactions:
- Democratic lawmakers criticize the lack of affordable options and point to the expansion of private school vouchers over early childhood education funding.
- Critics argue that the state should not wait for federal aid, and must take action to support families.
What’s next:
- Lawmakers face pressure to address these issues in the 2025 legislative session, with child care and Medicaid funding as top priorities.
- The "tri-share" model, splitting child care costs among government, employers, and individuals, is proposed as a potential solution.
Community impact:
- The shortage of child care services costs the state an estimated $4.2 billion annually in missed tax revenue and employee shortages.
- Child care is essential for economic productivity, supporting the broader macro economy and family prosperity. (ICC)
Indiana Revenue Shortfall Persists
For the fourth consecutive month, Indiana's revenue intake fell short of projections. November's General Fund revenues totaled nearly $1.4 billion, missing the December 2023 forecast by $6.3 million, or about 0.5%.
Why it matters:
- Consecutive months of revenue shortfall could impact Indiana's budget planning and financial stability.
- Lower income and sales tax collections may signal broader economic challenges.
The big picture:
- Year-to-date, General Fund revenues are $7.7 billion, nearly $250 million below forecasts and 2.4% lower than the previous fiscal year.
- Only riverboat wagering exceeded projections, with a 24.7% increase over the monthly estimate.
What’s next:
- State officials will need to assess the impact of these shortfalls on budget allocations and fiscal policies.
- Monitoring and adjustments may be necessary to align with economic realities as the fiscal year progresses. (IIB)
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Important Dates:
- FIRSST Task Force - 12/18, 10:00 AM, room 431.