By State Sen. Daryl Schmitt (R-Jasper)
As a state senator and former county councilman, I believe it is important to be a good steward of Hoosier taxpayer dollars.
That's why I was pleased to hear Gov. Mike Braun announce the Indiana Department of Administration saved more than $37 million in the first six months of 2025 and has avoided $72 million in future costs.
The state found these savings through renegotiated vendor contracts, consolidating state vehicle purchasing and making Indiana's government run more like a business.
Gov. Braun's announcement comes on the heels of the General Assembly passing a new law earlier this year that improves government efficiency and accountability.
Senate Enrolled Act 5, which I co-authored, improves transparency and oversight of government contracts, requires preemptive reviews before the state accepts new federal funds that impact state spending and encourages the state to be more efficient in its staffing.
Under this law, state agencies are now required to submit quarterly status reports to the State Budget Agency on contracts of $500,000 or more that outline contract expenditures compared to the maximum contract amount, any changes to contract terms and the metrics used to assess contract performance.
This oversight gives the legislature a better understanding of how money is being spent in the state and increases transparency for Hoosiers.
I believe this increase in oversight not only strengthens our state but also helps build trust between Hoosiers and their government, and I am happy to see Indiana take these important steps to make us more transparent and efficient.
As always, constituents can reach out to me with any questions or concerns by email at s48@iga.in.gov or by phone at 1-800-382-9467.
-30-
State Sen. Daryl Schmitt (R-Jasper) represents Senate District 48,
which includes Crawford, Dubois, Gibson, Perry, Pike and Spencer counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
