4/28/2026 Torchbearer Weekly Policy Update
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- BREAKING: Governor to pump $200M into child care vouchers, take 14K kids off waitlist
- Braun announces 30-day break on Indiana sales tax for gasoline
- State revenues continue to beat projections in March
- Governor Braun Announces MGA Chair’s Agenda –Deploying Advanced Nuclear Energy
- Indiana amnesty period for paying delinquent taxes set to open in July
- 1 big thing: Toll road's unknown impact
- Providers wait for hundreds of millions in delayed Medicaid payments
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- Important Dates
Indiana Unemployment Dips Again in Delayed February Report
Indiana’s unemployment rate fell to 3.3% in February, marking a one-tenth percent decrease from the previous month.
Why it matters: Lower unemployment rates indicate a strengthening job market in Indiana, which is crucial for economic stability and growth.
- The Indiana Department of Workforce Development (DWD) reported the addition of 3,400 private sector jobs.
- The state’s labor force participation rate remains higher than the national average.
By the numbers: Indiana’s private employment reached 2,833,400 in February, with significant gains in sectors like education, health services, and manufacturing.
- 85,672 job openings were noted as of February 28.
The bottom line: Indiana’s unemployment rate remains below the national rate of 4.4%, reflecting a robust local economy despite national trends. (Inside Indiana Business)
READI 1.0 Investments Fueled $675M in Economic Impact, Study Shows
A study by Purdue University and Indiana University reveals that the initial phase of Indiana’s Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI 1.0) has generated over $675 million in statewide economic impact.
Why it matters: The READI initiative demonstrates the power of collaboration among government, nonprofit, and private sector leaders in driving economic growth.
- Gov. Mike Braun emphasizes the initiative’s role in strengthening the economy and infrastructure.
Driving the news: In December 2021, $500 million was awarded to 17 regions, with nearly $400 million already spent on 405 projects by early 2026.
What’s next: The state continues funding through READI 2.0, with $334 million committed to new projects in 2025, anticipating a 4:1 match in funding from local sources. (IBJ)
White House Pushes Imminent Easing of Controls on Marijuana
The White House is preparing to relax federal marijuana restrictions, following President Trump’s frustration with the slow pace of change.
Why it matters: The shift could redefine federal marijuana policy, impacting states‘ control over licensing and potentially easing access for medical research.
- Advocates have long pushed for federal relaxation, arguing current restrictions are outdated.
Driving the news: The administration is considering moving marijuana to Schedule III, similar to some prescription painkillers.
- This reclassification would reduce federal penalties and enhance research opportunities.
- Trump’s December executive order emphasized increasing medical marijuana research without federal decriminalization.
What’s next: The administration’s plans remain fluid, with potential changes to ongoing DEA processes to expedite rescheduling. (IBJ)
Indiana Hospital Systems Meet Benchmark on Direct-to-Employer Health Care Deals
The Indiana Department of Health reports that five nonprofit hospital systems in Indiana offered direct-to-employer health care arrangements at an average of 260% of Medicare pricing, aligning with statutory requirements.
Why it matters: These arrangements allow employers to bypass traditional insurance models, potentially lowering costs and improving healthcare access for employees.
- Indiana Governor Mike Braun praised the initiative, highlighting its potential to boost local economies by enabling businesses to invest more in their workforce.
The big picture: Ascension Saint Vincent, Community Health Network, Franciscan Health, Indiana University Health, and Parkview Health Network have all met the pricing benchmark, with Ascension Saint Vincent achieving the lowest performance percentage.
What they’re saying: Health and Human Services Secretary Gloria Sachdev commended the initiative as a cost-control measure maintaining high-quality care. The American Medical Association also released guidelines to assist physicians considering direct contracting.
What’s next: Indiana hospitals will continue to develop these models, with the Indiana Hospital Association supporting further innovations to meet employers’ needs. (Indiana Capital Chronicle)
New Data Suggests Indiana Has the Best Roads in the Nation
Businesses and individuals in Indiana can soon pay overdue taxes without penalties during the upcoming amnesty period.
Why it matters: This is the first chance in over a decade for taxpayers to clear their debts without additional fees. The Indiana Department of Revenue set the amnesty from July 15 to Sept. 9, following a legislative directive.
Details: The amnesty applies to delinquent taxes owed before Jan. 1, 2024, excluding those who participated in past programs. - Payment plans are available for individuals owing over $100 and businesses owing over $500, with debts due by June 2027 to avoid double penalties.
By the numbers: The state anticipates collecting between $156 million to $277 million this year. A contractor, United Collection Bureau, will assist in raising awareness, receiving 5.5% of amnesty payments. (Indiana Capital Chronicle)
FSSA Seeks Return of $200 Million in Improper Payments to Attendant Care Providers
The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) is pursuing $200 million in improper payments from the state’s largest attendant care providers after audits revealed widespread errors.
Why it matters: These audits highlight significant issues within Medicaid claims, potentially impacting both the state’s budget and the integrity of healthcare services.
- Errors were found in nearly all claims reviewed, raising concerns over compliance and accuracy.
- The FSSA’s actions could lead to increased oversight and reforms in the Medicaid system.
Providers under scrutiny: Five major providers, including Tendercare Home Health, are involved.
- FSSA found issues like unverified services and unauthorized tasks being billed.
- Providers are contesting the findings, citing possible cash flow impacts and current compliance efforts.
What’s next: The FSSA plans to extend audits to other providers and enhance educational efforts on compliance.
- Prepayment reviews and electronic verification enhancements are expected to prevent future improper claims.
The stakes: This move aligns with broader efforts by the Braun administration to curb Medicaid waste and fraud.
- Ongoing reforms include eligibility checks and program restructuring to mitigate financial discrepancies. (Indiana Capital Chronicle)
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Important Dates:
Important Dates:
May 5, 2026: Primary Election Day
May 12, 2026: Anticipated Legislative Council Meeting