By SCOTT BALDWIN
State Senator
The 2026 legislative session may have been short, but it delivered meaningful results for our state. From public safety to affordability and government accountability, we focused on issues that matter most to Hoosier families here in District 20.
Public safety continues to be a top priority, especially as new technologies create new challenges. This session, I authored legislation to ensure law enforcement can detect and respond to unauthorized drones when permitted under federal law, giving our first responders the tools they need to keep our communities safe. I also authored a law to modernize Indiana’s judicial security structure, strengthening protections for judges, court staff and court facilities at a time when threats against members of the judiciary are becoming more frequent, including here in Indiana.
We also took steps to give courts more flexibility to keep dangerous criminals off our streets. I supported a commonsense constitutional amendment to allow judges greater discretion when setting bail, and I look forward to supporting this measure again when it appears on the ballot later this fall.
Affordability was another key focus, as families across our community continue to feel the pressure of rising costs. We passed legislation eliminating state taxes on tips, overtime pay and loan interest on American-made vehicles for the 2026 tax year, a change expected to save Hoosiers $237 million. At the same time, we advanced efforts to improve electric utility affordability and bring greater transparency to energy pricing, an issue I continue to hear about from constituents.
Health care access remains a top concern for many families. To address this, I authored legislation preventing insurance companies from penalizing hospitals when care involves an out-of-network provider, a practice that can limit access to care and shift costs onto patients. This new law reinforces the intent of the federal No Surprises Act and helps ensure Hoosiers can get the care they need without unnecessary barriers.
Finally, we made progress toward a more efficient and accountable state government. By streamlining outdated boards and commissions, modernizing procurement practices and eliminating unnecessary fees, we are reducing bureaucracy and making government more responsive to the people it serves.
There is still more work to do, and I will continue meeting with constituents, working with colleagues and preparing for the next legislative session to address the challenges facing our communities.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to reach out this session. Your input is invaluable, and it is an honor to represent you at the Statehouse.
Republican Scott Baldwin represents District 20 in the Indiana Senate, which includes Noblesville.