Commentary by Kathy Kreag Richardson, House District 20
This week, state lawmakers gathered at the Indiana Statehouse for the start of the 2016 legislative session. Although this is a short session, policymakers will be working hard throughout the next 10 weeks to address issues facing our state.
Committee meetings, which are an integral part of the legislative process, have started to convene. In these meetings, legislators hear testimony, discuss potential laws and thoroughly examine the impact proposals will have on Hoosiers. Along with serving as majority caucus chair, I have been named vice chair of the House Committee on Elections and Apportionment. I also serve as a member on the House Judiciary Committee and the House Statutory Committee on Ethics.
Now, more than ever, it is easier for folks to be involved in the legislative process. By visiting iga.in.gov, you can watch committee hearings, stream session meetings, keep track of votes on legislation and access complete bill digests. Informed constituents are a vital function of democracy and I encourage everyone to take part.
As your state representative, I always appreciate hearing from residents about legislation or topics affecting our area. Your input and opinions on these crucial matters help guide my efforts here at the Statehouse. One way your voice can be heard is to complete the legislative survey mailed to constituents. The survey presents the opportunity to share your thoughts and ideas on issues that may come before the Indiana General Assembly. Please complete my survey and mail it back to me at the Statehouse, or visit www.in.gov/h29 to submit it online.
Receiving my e-newsletter is another great way to keep up with the latest work we are doing at the Statehouse. To get these periodic updates sent directly to your email, sign up at www.in.gov/h29. As we work through session, contact me by phone at 317-234-9380, by email at [email protected] or by mail at 200 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46204.
I look forward to keeping you up-to-date in the short session as we move ahead. And as always, I hope to hear from you as I work to best serve House District 29.
Column submitted by Representative Kathy Kreag Richardson (R-Noblesville). Current Publishing LLC holds no bias for or against any candidate or public official and gladly accepts column from all parties.
