By State Sen. Aaron Freeman (R-Indianapolis)
During every summer and fall, lawmakers meet to take a deep look at a variety of issues in order to prepare for the upcoming legislative session. Unsurprisingly, one of the biggest hurdles this interim is deciding how we go forward as a legislature in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This spring, the legislature established a new six-member Legislative Continuity Committee to focus on how the legislative branch can prepare for future emergencies and how the legislature can continue to operate safely and securely this coming year.
The discussions are ongoing, but there are currently plans to modify seating on both the Senate and House floors, as well as in committee rooms, to allow for social distancing. We are also looking to expand our technological presence to provide lawmakers, staff and our constituents more options of communication and we will be leaving no stone unturned in an effort to ensure we have a session that is as safe and efficient as possible.
Because the legislative session ended just as the COVID-19 pandemic began to fully affect our state, my fellow lawmakers and I were not able to weigh in on the many changes that have taken place over the past few months. Consequently, it's paramount to make sure that you are properly represented leading up to and during the 2021 session.
I look forward to seeing the Legislative Continuity Committee's recommendations, and as always, am open to your feedback on these matters.
To stream the Legislative Continuity Committee meetings, as well as other interim study committees, visit iga.in.gov.
If you have any questions, comment or concerns about the upcoming session, you can always contact my office by phone at 317-232-9490 or by email at Senator.Freeman@iga.in.gov.
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A high-resolution photo of State Sen. Aaron Freeman is available by clicking here.
