By State Sen. Daryl Schmitt (R-Jasper)
The Indiana National Guard is one of our nation's largest and well-trained units in the country.
Dating back more than 200 years, the Indiana National Guard can trace its history to 1801 when the Indiana territory organized a militia to defend local settlements.
Since then, guardsmen have accepted the call of duty and have worked to protect not only Indiana, but the entire nation, during war and natural disasters.
That's why this year I was honored to support a new law that improves fringe benefits for the men and women in the Indiana National Guard, provides for more generous scholarship opportunities and creates new recognitions to honor their heroism.
House Enrolled Act 1111 allows the guard to procure health insurance plans for active-duty guardsmen. Previously, the state provided premium assistance for those on active duty, but not a health insurance plan. This update ensures that members of the guard have access to affordable health care options and can remain healthy during their service.
The new law also creates a pathway to allow guardsmen to use the National Guard Tuition Support Scholarship on workforce training programs other than college courses if approved by the Adjutant General and Department of Workforce Development.
House Enrolled Act 1111 also created the Outstanding Airman or Soldier of the Year Medal and the Exemplary Fitness Medal as ways to honor guardsmen who go above and beyond the call of duty.
Hoosiers should be proud of the work our National Guard does to protect our communities, and I will always work hard to ensure they are well taken care of.
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.
