Indiana’s 2025 legislative session is off to a busy start, with ten important education bills in motion. These bills aim to enhance K-12 attendance, provide better benefits for teachers, and cut down on outdated school rules.
Both the House and the Senate are reviewing these proposals. Bills that may cost money will first need approval from the budget committees before advancing. Indiana’s Republican leaders and new Governor Mike Braun focus on reducing regulations and expanding private school options.
In contrast, Democrats are advocating for increased funding for public schools and broader access to pre-kindergarten education.
In total, nearly thirty education bills have been introduced, but many may not even receive a hearing. Only a few will likely pass by the end of April.
Some key bills that have been publicly discussed involve support for school counselors, mental health resources for students, job placements for college graduates, and changes to how school boards operate.
Here’s a look at some of the main education bills making headway:
House Bill 1002: Deregulating Schools
Author: Rep. Bob Behning, R-Indianapolis
Goal: This bill aims to ease regulations on schools by removing or altering some requirements related to teacher training and school operations. It also aims to eliminate outdated educational provisions.
Supporters say: This bill is seen as a way to reduce unnecessary administrative burdens.
Critics say: Some Democrats worry that it will lower the standards for hiring the state’s education secretary.
House Bill 1201: Tackling Chronic Absenteeism
Author: Rep. Bob Behning, R-Indianapolis
Goal: The bill requires the Indiana Department of Education to report on reasons for student absenteeism and suggests ways to improve attendance. It prohibits suspending students solely for chronic absenteeism.
Supporters say: The bill aims to offer more support for absent students rather than punishments.
Critics say: Some argue that suspensions can be appropriate in certain cases.
House Bill 1064: School Transfers and Payments
Author: Rep. Cory Criswell, R-Middletown
Goal: This bill allows schools to accept cash payments at athletic events and enables high school athletes to transfer schools without affecting their eligibility.
Supporters say: It empowers families to choose schools that fit their children’s needs.
Critics say: Some believe it adds unnecessary requirements for schools.
House Bill 1348: Homeschool Diplomas
Author: Rep. Tim Wesco, R-Osceola
Goal: The bill ensures that diplomas from homeschools are treated equally to traditional school diplomas in college and employment applications.
Supporters say: It recognizes the validity of homeschool education.
Critics say: There are concerns about the lack of standards in homeschooling education.
House Bill 1049: Scholarships for Public Service Attorneys
Author: Rep. Greg Steuerwald, R-Avon
Goal: This bill creates scholarships for law students who commit to serving as public defenders or prosecutors in Indiana for at least five years.
Supporters say: It addresses the shortage of attorneys in the state.
Critics say: No public opposition was voiced.
House Bill 1016: Fire Chiefs on School Safety Commissions
Author: Rep. Matt Commons, R-Williamsport
Goal: The bill allows fire chiefs to serve on school safety commissions.
Supporters say: They bring valuable experience in emergency planning.
Critics say: No opposition was indicated.
House Bill 1102: Preschool Program Contracts
Author: Rep. Matt Commons, R-Williamsport
Goal: This bill permits public schools to partner with religiously affiliated nonprofit preschools.
Supporters say: It provides more options for preschool education.
Critics say: No public opposition was noted.
Senate Bill 146: Teacher Pay and Benefits
Author: Sen. Linda Rogers, R-Granger
Goal: This bill raises minimum teacher salaries and offers leave to new parents.
Supporters say: It’s crucial for attracting and keeping good teachers.
Critics say: Some Democrats wanted even higher pay increases.
Senate Bill 255: Educator Licenses and Bullying
Author: Sen. Spencer Deery, R-West Lafayette
Goal: The bill eases licensing for STEM professionals and improves communication about bullying incidents.
Supporters say: It helps address teacher shortages in STEM subjects.
Critics say: Concerns exist about potential gaps in pedagogical training.
Senate Bill 373: Administrative Changes
Author: Sen. Jeff Raatz, R-Richmond
Goal: This bill transfers some duties from the State Board of Education to the Department of Education.
Supporters say: It streamlines administrative processes.
Critics say: There are concerns that more clarity is needed regarding changes.
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