Governor Holcomb signs five Next Level Agenda bills and one executive order

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – On Tuesday, Governor Eric J. Holcomb signed five of his Next Level Agenda bills and one executive order into law.

During his press release, he elaborated on the importance of each bill and how they will affect the citizens of the state.

These bills are part of his 2021 Next Level Agenda.

Broadband Development – HEA 1449, Governor Holcomb says investing in “high quality, affordable broadband is essential to the success of all Hoosiers and our state.” The bill is designed to increase broadband access for the state.

Driving Privileges – HEA 1199, Governor Holcomb says “A key piece of my Next Level Agenda is removing barriers for Hoosiers to reinstate their driver’s license if the suspension was for non-traffic related reasons, such as failure to pay a fines or fees.”

Electronic Meetings and Signatures – HEA 1437, Governor Holcomb says “The pandemic has caused everyone to rethink how business is done. By modernizing our laws to allow virtual options for the meetings of boards, commissions, and local government bodies, we grow and improve public access.” This bill is designed to allow electronic signatures with the same weight as a manual signature.

Pregnancy Accommodations – HEA 1309, Governor Holcomb says “While I have pushed for different language to become law in each of the last two sessions, I agree with members from both sides of the aisle that voted in favor of the bill as a step forward in assisting pregnant women in the workforce.” This bill is to require employers to accommodate an employee’s pregnancy within a reasonable timeframe.

Telehealth Matters – SEA 3, Governor Holcomb says “Telehealth is a win for everyone – care providers have fewer missed visits, patients reduce their travel time for care, and public health improves.” This bill requires that telehealth medical records are maintained under the same standards for patients in an in-person setting.

Governor Holcomb also signed an executive order to promote pregnancy accommodations

He stated, “While state agencies already make reasonable accommodations for pregnant employees, outlining expectations regarding this topic in this executive order provides greater clarity for both agency leadership and agency employees.”

To find out more about Governor Holcomb’s 2021 Next Level Agenda and for more information about the bills he has passed, please visit http://https://www.in.gov/gov/newsroom/2021-bill-watch/ for further details.