By State Sen. Jeff Raatz (R-Richmond)
It is extremely important for elected representatives to have a say when state agencies make decisions that could impose large costs on taxpayers. For that reason, I co-authored Senate Enrolled Act 4 to ensure the State Budget Committee reviews costly regulations before they take effect.
SEA 4 requires state agencies to determine whether a regulation they plan to impose would cost at least $1 million to individuals, businesses or local governments over any two-year period.
If the proposed regulation crosses this threshold, the regulation must be reviewed by the State Budget Committee, unless the rule was issued as part of an emergency declaration, to comply with federal law, or to incorporate an updated building, firefighting, equipment, safety or professional code.
The State Budget Committee currently consists of four elected legislators: State Rep. Jeff Thompson (R-Lizton), State Sen. Ryan Mishler (R-Mishawaka), State Rep. Greg Porter (D-Indianapolis) and State Sen. David Niezgodski (D-South Bend). Acting State Budget Director Joseph M. Habig serves as the fifth member.
In the General Assembly, many voices are considered to ensure elected officials make the best possible laws on behalf of those they represent. SEA 4 keeps unelected officials more accountable to the people and ensures they cannot step outside their limited bounds to impose huge costs on Hoosiers.
Indiana is widely recognized as one of the most fiscally responsible states in the country, and SEA 4 is just another step forward in putting fiscal conservatism at the forefront in our state. Indiana sets an example that stands in stark contrast to the out-of-control spending in Washington D.C.
Constituents can reach out to me with any questions or concerns they may have by filling out a "Contact Me" form on the IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Raatz website or by phone at 800-382-9467.
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State Sen. Jeff Raatz (R-Richmond) represents Senate District 27, which includes
Henry, Union and Wayne counties, and portions of Franklin County.
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