Legislative Updates – Property Tax Relief, Budget Priorities & More

As we move through the 2025 legislative session, I want to share key updates on efforts to improve government efficiency, pass a responsible budget, and provide property tax relief for Hoosiers. Senate Republicans remain committed to cutting waste, ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent wisely, and addressing issues that impact our communities.

Improving Government Efficiency

Over the years, Senate Republicans have championed government reform to cut waste and ensure responsible spending of taxpayer dollars. This session, we are prioritizing Senate Bill 5, which will:
✔️ Require state agencies to provide updates on contracts worth $500,000+
✔️ Mandate reports for new federal program funding requests
✔️ Review state job vacancies open for 90+ days to determine necessity

Passing a Balanced Budget

The 2025 session is underway, and a balanced two-year budget remains a top priority. Every dollar we allocate comes from hardworking Hoosiers, and I am committed to ensuring those funds are used wisely. A responsible budget keeps Indiana running efficiently while funding key services like education, public safety, and infrastructure.

If you have thoughts on this or other fiscal issues, I encourage you to reach out at IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Zay

Cutting Property Taxes for Hoosiers

While Indiana ranks #4 in the nation (according to the Tax Foundation) for best property tax climate, homeowners have felt the impact of inflation-driven increases. That’s why Senate Bill 1 is our caucus’s top priority for tax relief.

Discussing My Legislation with PBS

Last week, I had the opportunity to sit down with PBS’s Jon Schwantes to discuss my key legislative priorities, including:
✅ Pharmacy Benefit Administration Reform
✅ Broadband Expansion
✅ Rural Economic Development

Lowering Prescription Drug Costs

This week, I presented Senate Bill 503 to the Senate Committee on Health and Provider Services. This bill would establish a Public-Private Partnership for drug benefits for state employees and Medicaid participants, helping reduce prescription and insurance costs for Hoosiers taxpayers by over $150 million dollars. The content of this bill was amended into SB 140 and has now moved to the House Insurance Committee where I will work with House members and the Governor's team to work for more efficient and effective government.

Containing Medicaid Costs

Medicaid spending has surged in recent years, limiting Indiana’s ability to invest in education and other critical areas. While Medicaid is an essential program, we must ensure it serves those who truly need it.

That’s why Senate Bill 2 aims to improve oversight and control Medicaid spending, keeping Indiana’s budget strong for future generations.

What’s happening at the halfway mark of the legislative session?

Key Senate Republican priorities are now moving to the House for further discussion. These include tax relief, Medicaid reform, healthcare cost reductions, and stronger fiscal oversight. The Senate will also introduce its version of the state's two-year budget proposal in the coming weeks.

What’s the latest on the casino bill?

While my original bill to move Rising Sun Casino’s license to New Haven won’t advance, Senate Bill 43 is moving forward. This bill commissions a study to identify the top three regions in Indiana best suited for a casino relocation. The study will provide essential data to help drive economic growth in the right areas.

Share Your Thoughts & Enter to Win a $25 Amazon Gift Card!

We want to hear from you! Take a few minutes to complete our survey, share your input on key legislative issues, and test your knowledge with some trivia questions. Everyone who provides their input and answers all trivia questions correctly will be entered into a drawing for a $25 Amazon gift card! Click here to participate: https://forms.gle/LSxNoFqymMnvQN849

Stay Connected & Get Involved

📌 Follow legislative updates: iga.in.gov
📌 Contact me: IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Zay | 800-382-9467

📌 Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/senandyzay

Thank you for staying engaged in the legislative process. I look forward to working together to ensure Indiana remains a great place to live and work.