Two To-Do Tuesday: Indiana Wetlands and HSE Referendum

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$109 Million Dedicated Wetland Protection Funds Unused

Indiana's Department of Natural Resources has taken in at least $109 million in wetlands payments from landowners, but many projects supposed to offset disruption have stalled. Several local lawmakers, including State Sen. Scott Baldwin (R-20) and US Rep. Victoria Spartz (R-5), have prioritized federal deregulation to accelerate private development. This shifts legal requirements to a state-run program that is not working well.

Key Points:

• Indiana must find a way to utilize the unused monies for intended environmental protections.

• Lawmakers should be held accountable for using the money as appropriated to increase, not stall, wetland protections.

• There is enormous opportunity for bipartisan community engagement to advocate for our environment and get the train back on the track.

  
  

HSE Referendum on the November Ballot

• The proposal would replace the current 2023 referendum after changes to the Indiana property tax laws reduced the revenue it was expected to generate.

• The referendum is intended to maintain, not expand, current services. Existing referendum funding helps support approximately 1 in 5 teacher salaries, school resource officers, school safety initiatives, and other essential student supports.

• HSE students continue to achieve exceptional results, including a projected 99% graduation rate, 3.5 average GPA, 91% of graduates pursuing college or other post-secondary education, and 380 industry certifications earned by the Class of 2026.

• Community partnerships help prepare students for the future. Hands-on opportunities, such as healthcare and law enforcement academies, give students real-world career experience while building practical skills and confidence.

Support our HSE public schools!

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