INDIANAPOLIS, Ind.

Governor Pence signed Senate Bill 352 in front of a military crowd at the Indiana War Memorial‘s Pershing Auditorium. The bill expands access to the state‘s Military Family Relief Fund. It eliminates the three-year restriction on access to grants from the fund, which can be used for food, housing or other emergency expenses while a military member is deployed. “Throughout our history, the people of Indiana have demonstrated our deep appreciation and support for people who serve, and also for their families,” Pence said.

The new law takes effect July 1 and gives access to the fund to more than 26,000 military members, veterans and their families who have served since the 9/11 terrorist attacks. “We’re going to make a statement about the heart and gratitude of the people of Indiana for those who serve and the families that have supported them throughout their service,” said Governor Pence. “Helping our Hoosier veterans who served our nation and sacrificed their lives to protect our freedom is the right thing to do.”

The bill passed both the House and Senate with no opposition.