Friday, July 1, 2016
Many new laws take effect today in Indiana. Among them are several bills to support Hoosier veterans and their families.
Senate Enrolled Act 295, authored by Sen. Jim Banks (R-Columbia City), opens the Military Family Relief Fund (MFRF) to any veteran of any national conflict or war who is also an Indiana resident, and a current or honorably discharged member of the armed forces or National Guard. The bill also creates a place on state income tax forms to enable a taxpayer to donate all or part of their refund to the MFRF.
House Enrolled Act 1187, sponsored by Sen. Sue Glick (R-LaGrange), makes it a Class A misdemeanor to pretend to be an active member or veteran of the U.S. military in order to obtain any benefit. This Stolen Valor Act is based on the federal Stolen Valor Act of 2013.
House Enrolled Act 1312, sponsored by Sen. Phil Boots (R-Crawfordsville), allows the Indiana Department of Administration to certify a small business as veteran-owned for purposes of state government contract preferences. Prior to this law, Indiana relied solely on a certification by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. HEA 1312 opens up contract preference to more businesses owned by National Guard veterans and those who don’t want to go through the federal registration process.
Showing our appreciation for those who served is always a priority for the General Assembly.
SEA 295, HEA 1187 and HEA 1312 go into effect today, July 1.
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