FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
State Sen. Greg Walker (R-Columbus) made the following statement regarding the conclusion of the 2026 legislative session:
STATEHOUSE (Feb. 27, 2026) – "As we wrap up this 2026 legislative session, I am pleased with the progress we made during this non-budget year, especially when it comes to protecting our young Hoosiers.
"We passed legislation that would better protect Hoosier children in the Department of Child Services system by adding legislative oversight mechanisms to the policies of DCS in an attempt to prevent future tragedy in Indiana; requiring in-person contact when abuse is suspected before an assessment or court case may be closed; and strengthening background check requirements for employees working in child welfare and placement settings.
"We also worked to better the lives of youth in DCS by creating and publishing 'the foster youth bill of rights'; strengthening the pathway for children in crisis within the DCS system to find a permanent loving home; and tightening the requirements for the ombudsman of the DCS office, who investigates, mediates and resolves complaints regarding DCS actions.
"Finally, we addressed strengthening Indiana's school age childcare grant by allowing funds to be used for transportation costs, including afterschool and summer programs. The legislature got so much important work done in such a short session for our most vulnerable Hoosiers.
"Thank you to my colleagues for supporting all of this important legislation. I look forward to seeing all the positive impact that will come from these initiatives."
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State Sen. Greg Walker (R-Columbus) represents Senate District 41, which includes portions of Bartholomew and Johnson counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
Contact: Kristen Gorski, Press Secretary
Kristen.Gorski@iga.in.gov
317-232-9539
