Hamilton County lawmakers to serve on key House Committees

Hamilton County legislators recently received appointments to serve on key House standing committees at the Statehouse.

“These committees are the workhorses of the legislative session, where bills are vetted and discussed and members of the public can share their feedback through testimony,” House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers) said. “Our legislators bring incredible talent and dedication to addressing the issues that matter most to Hoosiers, and I’m confident we’ll make meaningful progress on our caucus priorities this session.”

House standing committee appointments are made by the Indiana House Speaker biennially after the November election and are in effect for the duration of members’ two-year terms. State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers) was reappointed as chair of the House Judiciary Committee, and will serve as a member of the House Courts and Criminal Code Committee, and the House Utilities, Energy, and Telecommunications Committee.

“The judiciary committee will continue its work to ensure Indiana’s courts and criminal justice system protects public safety and all Hoosiers,” Jeter said. “As an attorney, I look forward to leaning into my experience as we examine complex issues and identify ways our state can improve.”

State Rep. Danny Lopez (R-Carmel) will serve as a member of the House Judiciary Committee and the House Ways and Means Committee.

“I’m looking forward to serving on the House Ways and Means Committee as we craft a balanced budget that funds essential services, maintains reserves and invests in our future,” Lopez said. “As lawmakers, we address important issues facing Hoosiers, and work to make a positive impact on our local communities and state.”

State Rep. Alaina Shonkwiler (R-Noblesville) will serve as a member of the House Government and Regulatory Reform Committee, House Public Policy Committee, and House Utilities, Energy, and Telecommunications Committee. Shonkwiler said committees play a crucial role in evaluating proposed legislation, reviewing public testimony, and considering amendments to ensure the effectiveness and relevance of bills.

“These committee assignments provide a vital platform to address the pressing issues affecting our constituents and ensure that their concerns are represented in the legislative process,” Shonkwiler said. “This session, we are committed to working diligently to pass a balanced and responsible budget while continuing to move Indiana forward.”

State Rep. Hunter Smith (R-Zionsville) will serve as a member of House Agriculture and Rural Development Committee, House Education Committee, and House Environmental Affairs Committee.

“As a farmer, my goals are to support agricultural and environmental policies that grow and preserve our agriculture industry,” Smith said. “I look forward to working with my colleagues to vet proposals for new laws and supporting legislation that best serves our communities.”

House lawmakers are scheduled to convene at 1:30 p.m. Jan. 8 for the first day of the 2025 legislative session. Hoosiers can visit iga.in.gov to find legislation, view calendars, and watch committee meetings and session.