INDIANAPOLIS — Governor Eric J. Holcomb offered the following comments on the 2017 General Assembly, which concluded its work Saturday:
2017 Legislative Session
“Hoosiers should feel good about the work accomplished this session, and—equally important—they should be proud of the way their elected officials achieved resolution on the most urgent, complicated and contentious issues facing our state. This session was marked by a spirit of collaboration and civility that should stand as a model for the rest of the nation.
“I commend and congratulate Speaker Bosma and President Pro Tem Long for their strong leadership this session to ensure our state continues on its path of prosperity, invests in roads and bridges, prepares a 21st Century workforce, attacks the drug epidemic, and delivers great government service.”
State Budget
“Once again, Indiana lawmakers, under the leadership of House Ways and Means Chairman Tim Brown and Senate Appropriations Chairman Luke Kenley, have demonstrated their ongoing commitment to maintaining responsible reserves and building balanced biennial state budgets.
“It seems every week there’s another example of Indiana gaining national attention for our top-rated business and tax climates, and we owe those accolades—in large part—to the fiscal discipline of our state lawmakers.”
“The budget funds key provisions in our Next Level agenda, including increased direct flights at Hoosier airports, funds to encourage and nurture entrepreneurship, and continued support for regional economic development efforts. It also ensures we take strong steps to develop a skilled and ready workforce by investing in pre-kindergarten and credentials in high-need industries for working adults.
“These strategic and targeted investments are designed to make our state stand out as the best place to live, work and build a business. I commend Indiana lawmakers for their vision, and I recognize the resolve it took to advance these programs amidst many other priorities.”
SOURCE: News release from the Office of Governor Eric J. Holcomb