STATEHOUSE (April 15, 2026) — A bill sponsored by State Sen. Stacey A. Donato (R-Logansport) that aims to better protect Hoosier children was ceremonially signed into law April 14 by Gov. Mike Braun.
Donato, a member of the Senate Committee on Family and Children Services, sponsored House Enrolled Act 1257 to add legislative oversight mechanisms to the policies of the Department of Child Services in an attempt to prevent future tragedies in Indiana.
The law increases reporting requirements within the DCS and allows Indiana’s members of Congress and state legislators to request access to child abuse and neglect reports.
"House Enrolled Act 1257 is a key step in moving Indiana away from reactive policymaking to a model that aims for better transparency and the prevention of tragedies before they occur," Donato said. "Our children deserve the best protection, and I was grateful to join the governor as he ceremonially signed this important bill into law."
Donato encourages residents of Senate District 18 to contact her with any questions or comments they may have. Donato can be reached by filling out a "Contact Me" form online at www.IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Donato or by phone at 317-234-9054.
PHOTO CAPTION: State Sen. Stacey A. Donato (R-Logansport, back row, left of American flag) attends the ceremonial signing of House Enrolled Act 1257, which she authored to increase protections for Hoosier children.
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Contact: Samantha Deese, Press Secretary
Samantha.Deese@iga.in.gov
317-234-9133
