Highlighting School Bus Safety

Over the past few weeks, Gov. Eric Holcomb has ceremonially signed several bills into law, including Senate Enrolled Act 2, which I co-authored.

SEA 2, also known as the MAXSTRONG Act, is named after siblings Mason Ingle, Alivia Stahl and Xzavier Ingle – three children who lost their lives boarding a school bus in Fulton County last year.

These tragedies sparked the Indiana General Assembly to increase the penalties for drivers who violate school bus stop laws, including making a violation that results in death a Level 5 felony.

SEA 2 also:

• Requires schools to minimize bus stops that make children cross highways in high-speed areas;
• Increases public awareness about Indiana’s school bus laws; and
• Requires schools to review their school bus routes and safety policies annually.

Though summer is here and school is out, it’s important to stress these new safety measures before students return in the fall.

The safety of our students is so important, and I hope this law will ensure our children are safe as they travel to and from school.

For more information on SEA 2, click here.

Safety Reminders for
Severe Weather

Tornadoes recently swept across the Midwest, affecting several states, including Indiana. Weather can be unpredictable, and it is critical to learn the necessary steps to take when severe weather hits.

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security has developed a severe weather preparedness fact sheet to help families understand how to respond before, during and after a tornado hits.

For a list of severe weather safety tips, click here.

Additionally, it’s important to be aware of home-repair scammers, as they often take advantage of homeowners after severe storms hit.

The Indiana Attorney General’s Office reminds Hoosiers to avoid signing documents or agreeing to any repair work on the spot without conducting research on the business or individual offering services.

To file a complaint regarding scams, click here.

Statewide Oak Threat

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources recently reported thousands of rhododendron plants throughout the state are infected with sudden oak death(SOD), a fungal pathogen that kills oak trees.

SOD has killed many oak trees on the West Coast, but this marks the first time in 10 years it has affected Indiana.

Hoosiers who have purchased rhododendrons in the last four weeks from Walmart or Rural King should destroy them, or call 1-866-NO-EXOTIC for instructions.

To learn more about this oak threat, click here.

21st Century Talent Regions Data Display

Indiana recently launched a new tool to support local and regional leaders working to attract, develop and connect Hoosier talent.  

The 21st Century Talent Regions Data Display brings together each county’s population, education and workforce information to help local stakeholders promote and improve their communities.

To learn more about the tool, which will be a great resource to improve regional job growth, click here.

Accepting Nominations for 2019 AgriVision Award

Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch is accepting nominations for the 2019 AgriVision Award, Indiana’s highest agricultural award.

This award recognizes those who have made significant contributions to the agriculture industry.

Nominations must be submitted no later than June 30 at 5 p.m.

Click here for more information and a nomination form.

Contact My Office
800-382-9467
Senator.Bassler@iga.in.gov