THE RAATZ ROUNDUP
Submitted for use on Oct. 29, 2025
Word Count: 310
Ensuring public safety is one of the most fundamental duties of our government. At the Statehouse, my focus is on supporting legislation to keep Hoosiers safe, especially from violent crime and deadly drugs.
That is why I supported two new laws designed to crack down on drug dealers and strengthen bail requirements.
In 2024, Indiana saw 475 opioid-related deaths, and fentanyl was the deadliest drug in that category. With this in mind, I supported Senate Enrolled Act 324, which increases penalties for drug dealers who intend to deal fentanyl. Longer sentences for fentanyl dealers will help keep these dangerous criminals behind bars longer and prevent them from pushing these extremely deadly drugs in our communities.
To cut down on the revolving door of violent criminals who are arrested, released on bail, and then go on to commit more crimes, I also supported House Enrolled Act 1014.
HEA 1014 requires an individual arrested for a violent crime to have a bail hearing in open court before they can receive bail. This law takes common-sense steps to make sure courts can't shuttle these suspects back onto the streets without taking the time to review the circumstances of the case.
The law also encourages drug-related offenders seek addiction treatment in return for the possibility of a reduced sentence.
It is imperative we keep our communities safe. These laws are just a few of the steps we are taking in the Indiana General Assembly to enforce our laws. I will continue to work with public safety officials and my fellow lawmakers to keep our towns and cities as safe as possible.
Constituents can reach out to me with any questions or concerns they may have by filling out a "Contact Me" form on the IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Raatz website or by calling my office at 800-382-9467.
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State Sen. Jeff Raatz (R-Richmond) represents Senate District 27, which includes
Henry, Union and Wayne counties, and portions of Franklin County.
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