By State Sen. Daryl Schmitt (R-Jasper)
Since before our nation's founding nearly 250 years ago, American veterans have put their lives on the line to protect their families, friends and neighbors.
It is always important to show gratitude to those who served our great nation, and here in Indiana we support our veterans in a number of ways. This includes no income taxes on military pay; college, career training and employment support; problem solving courts specific for veterans; and veteran service officers in every county.
As a member of the Indiana Senate this year, I supported a number of efforts to support Hoosier veterans.
House Enrolled Act 1111 allows the state to offer health insurance to active-duty Indiana National Guard members and makes their surviving relatives eligible for a $100,000 state employee death benefit if the member dies in active duty. It also creates new commendations for National Guard members with distinguished service to Indiana, including the Indiana Outstanding Airman and Soldier of the Year medal.
I also supported House Enrolled Act 1280, which expanded the current income tax exemption to the U.S. Space Force, U.S. Public Health Service Corps and the NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps.
In this year's budget, the General Assembly included legislation that requires the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to provide free state park admission for Gold Star family members.
Because of the many sacrifices of our soldiers, sailors and airman, our country remains stronger than ever – and for that I am grateful.
I will continue to pray for all service members who are in harm's way, our veterans who return home, and the family and friends of those lost to war.
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.
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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.
