The Lead Off
- Allen County lawmakers are highlighting several new Indiana laws taking effect July 1
- The measures include stronger child protection penalties, expanded childcare access, and tax relief for veterans
- Officials say the laws also aim to support farmers, small businesses, and local workforce needs
INDIANAPOLIS, IND. (WOWO) Allen County legislators are outlining several new state laws taking effect July 1 following the conclusion of the 2026 legislative session, with changes focused on child protection, childcare access, agriculture, and tax relief.
Lawmakers say the new measures are designed to strengthen protections for children, expand workforce support systems, and reduce regulatory burdens for Indiana farmers and small businesses.
Child protection measures strengthened
One of the new laws highlighted by state officials is House Enrolled Act 1303, which increases penalties related to child sexual abuse material offenses.
State Rep. Martin Carbaugh (R–Fort Wayne) said the law creates a dedicated section in Indiana Code for such offenses and adds a new crime for distribution of child sexual abuse material, along with harsher penalties.
“Protecting children must remain one of our highest priorities,” Carbaugh said. “This new law strengthens our ability to prosecute offenders and sends a clear message that crimes against children will be met with serious consequences.”
Childcare access expanded for families and employers
Another measure, House Enrolled Act 1177, expands Indiana’s employer childcare tax credit program.
State Rep. Dave Heine (R–Fort Wayne) said the law allows businesses to receive credits for costs tied to childcare services, including operating childcare facilities, employee training, and wage increases for childcare staff. The law also gives local development commissions more flexibility to support construction and expansion of childcare facilities.
“Finding quality childcare shouldn’t be a barrier for Hoosier parents trying to work and provide for their children,” Heine said. “This new law helps expand access by giving employers and communities more flexibility to invest in childcare solutions.”
Support for farmers and small businesses
House Enrolled Act 1424, co-authored by State Rep. Bob Morris (R–Fort Wayne), is aimed at reducing regulatory requirements for farmers and local vendors.
The law is designed to expand opportunities for direct sales of agricultural products and improve access to locally grown food.
“Farmers and small business owners work hard to provide quality products to their communities,” Morris said. “This new law cuts red tape to support local entrepreneurship and helps connect more Hoosiers with fresh, homegrown products.”
Tax relief for veterans and local government changes
House Enrolled Act 1210 includes updates to property tax policy and expands tax relief for veterans, particularly those with service-connected disabilities.
State Rep. Chris Judy (R–Fort Wayne) said the measure increases the property tax deduction for totally disabled veterans to cover 100% of the assessed value of their homes.
“Honoring our veterans means backing our gratitude with meaningful action,” Judy said. “House Enrolled Act 1210 strengthens tax relief for service-connected disabled veterans and helps to ease the financial burdens for those who have sacrificed so much for our country.”
Next steps
The new laws are set to take effect July 1 across Indiana. Local officials say they will continue to review implementation impacts as agencies and communities begin applying the updated policies.
The Takeaway
- New Indiana laws taking effect July 1 include stronger penalties for child exploitation offenses, expanded childcare tax credits, and regulatory changes affecting farmers and small businesses.
- Allen County legislators say the measures are intended to support families, improve workforce access to childcare, and reduce barriers for agricultural and local vendors.
- Additional provisions expand property tax relief for totally disabled veterans, with changes expected to roll out statewide as the laws take effect.
