State Sen. Nick McKinley: Working for Senate District 17

As your new state senator, it is my priority to ensure Indiana is a great place to live, work and raise a family. That's why I voted for and co-sponsored bills this year to enact new laws that will benefit Hoosiers across the state.

Tax Cuts and affordability

In the 2026 session, I supported a new law to save Hoosiers $237 million in taxes on tips, overtime pay and loan interest on American-made vehicles. This law pairs Indiana's tax code to the federal code, meaning Hoosiers will have the same tax benefits at the state level as they do at the federal level for wages earned in 2026 regarding no tax on tips, no tax on overtime, and no tax on loan interest for American-made vehicles.

This year, I also sponsored House Enrolled Act 1002, which will ensure utilities prioritize more affordable, reliable power to Hoosiers.

Preserving safety nets for Hoosiers who need them most

I firmly believe in passing common sense legislation that promotes Hoosier values. That's why Senate Republicans made a measure to ensure illegal immigrants can't get taxpayer-funded welfare our top priority in 2026.

Senate Enrolled Act 1, which I was proud to support, is designed to root out waste, fraud and abuse in Indiana's welfare programs by increasing eligibility checks for SNAP, preventing illegal immigrants from claiming benefits and updating Indiana's laws to comply with new federal Medicaid reforms, including work requirements for able-bodied, working-age adults. This is Indiana's latest effort to catch bad actors and preserve programs like SNAP and Medicaid for Hoosiers who need them most.

Expanding access to health care in rural communities

Recognizing the unique needs of rural communities, Senate Republicans have passed laws that protect and expand access to health care in rural parts of the state.

For example, a new 2026 law I supported requires medical students in Indiana to do a rotation working in a rural community. Hopefully, this law will spur more of our doctors in training to choose to practice in our small towns.

Cutting red tape for rural small businesses

Hoosier farmers know how to produce safe, high-quality food – they don't need the government standing in the way of their small businesses.

That's why this year, I voted for legislation that supports local farmers by removing burdensome regulations around home-based food production. When we remove unnecessary barriers to entry, we open the door for more local producers to grow their businesses, support their families and keep rural communities thriving.

I encourage you to contact me with any questions or comments you may have by filling out a "Contact Me" form online or by phone at 800-382-9467.