7/21/2026 Torchbearer Weekly Policy Update
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- Braun Administration Launches Program to Get Indiana Communities to Embrace Nuclear
- Indiana Regulators to Investigate Utility Profits, Bill Charges
- Indiana to End Race, Gender Preferences in State Contracts
- Recount Hearing Set for July 28 in 3-Vote Race from May’s Republican Primary
- Challenger Drops Recount of 14-Vote GOP Primary Margin for State Sen. Liz Brown
- Indiana’s State Budget Reserves Jump 60% in Past Year to $4B
- U.S. to Impose 25% Tariff on Some Brazilian Imports, Citing Unfair Trade Practices
- Trump Says He Will Impose 50 Percent Tariffs on Canadian Goods
- Indiana Not to Participate in SUN Bucks in 2027
- Indiana’s Largest Broadband Expansion Will Bring High-Speed Internet to 123,000 Homes
- State of Indiana Fiscal Year 2026 Close-Out Summary
- Share the Torchbearer Newsletter to with Your Network!
- Important Dates
Braun Administration Launches Program to Get Indiana Communities to Embrace Nuclear
Indiana’s top energy policy official announced a statewide effort to help communities embrace nuclear power.
Why it matters: The Indiana Advanced Nuclear Ready Community program aims to bring nuclear power plants closer to communities, ensuring they have the workforce capacity and infrastructure for success.
- It will provide education, transparency, and conversations to prepare communities.
The big picture: The program, announced at the Nuclear Energy & AI Future forum, includes a three-tiered framework to address regulatory, workforce, and infrastructure issues, focusing on small modular reactors (SMRs).
What’s next: Communities interested in hosting an SMR will receive resources and guidance through a digital toolkit to navigate the qualification process.
- Governor Mike Braun supports nuclear energy, emphasizing affordability and strategic roadmaps to strengthen workforce programs. (IBJ)
Indiana Regulators to Investigate Utility Profits, Bill Charges
State regulators have commenced probes into utility profit margins and bill charges, marking the first steps in an energy affordability report.
Why it matters: These investigations aim to ensure fair pricing for consumers and address legislative needs to aid struggling customers.
- The focus is on the profits utilities can collect for capital projects.
- Trackers, or fluctuating charges on bills, will also be scrutinized.
What’s next: The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission plans to complete investigations by year-end, aligning with the next legislative session.
The big picture: The commission’s broader affordability report suggests repealing the 7% sales tax on utility bills and involving state oversight in utility ownership changes.
What they’re saying: Consumer advocates and officials, including Gov. Mike Braun, support these steps towards making energy bills more affordable for Hoosiers.
Go deeper: The IURC’s full Energy Affordability report, released Wednesday, is available here.
The bottom line: These initiatives, backed by recent legislative efforts, aim to create a more balanced utility rate structure while addressing the needs of struggling customers. (IBJ)
Indiana to End Race, Gender Preferences in State Contracts
Indiana will discontinue aspects of a diversity program it used for decades to recruit minority and female contractors after the state attorney general determined the program’s race and gender preferences were unconstitutional.
Why it matters: The shift to a merit-based system is significant as it reflects a broader legal and political discourse on diversity and equal protection.
- This decision could set a precedent for other states evaluating similar programs.
- Stakeholders are watching closely to see how this change might impact minority- and women-owned businesses in Indiana.
The big picture: Gov. Mike Braun’s decision comes after a legal review by Attorney General Todd Rokita, who found race- and sex-based preferences unconstitutional.
- The review was prompted by a U.S. Supreme Court ruling against the use of race in college admissions.
What’s next: The Department of Administration, with guidance from the Attorney General’s office, will manage the transition to the new system.
- Democratic lawmakers have criticized the decision, arguing it undermines efforts to support diversity and inclusion.
Between the lines: The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between legal interpretations of equality and policy approaches to diversity. (Indiana Capital Chronicle)
Recount Hearing Set for July 28 in 3-Vote Race from May’s Republican Primary
The final outcome from the recount of a three-vote margin in May’s Republican primary for a state Senate seat won’t be decided until at least the last days of July.
Why it matters: The delay highlights the high stakes and contentious nature of the Senate District 23 race, where state Sen. Spencer Deery leads his Trump-endorsed opponent, Paula Copenhaver.
- With a narrow 6,337 to 6,334 lead, each vote is critical.
What’s next: A hearing is scheduled for July 28 at the State Government Center in Indianapolis.
- The hearing will include a report on a review of voting materials in six counties and address Copenhaver’s request to question voters under oath.
Between the lines: Deery has criticized the request as an attempt to intimidate voters and challenge lawful votes.
- The recount could be further delayed if subpoenas are granted.
Zoom out: Recount decisions are pending in another Republican primary, with a hearing set for the morning of July 21 in the House District 57 (Knott v. Bennett) race. (Indiana Capital Chronicle)
Challenger Drops Recount of 14-Vote GOP Primary Margin for State Sen. Liz Brown
The Republican primary challenger to state Sen. Liz Brown has withdrawn his request for a recount in their tight 14-vote race.
Why it matters: This decision concludes the contentious primary campaign, allowing Brown to focus on the upcoming election against Democrat Julie McGill in a predominantly Republican district.
- The recount, which was seen as costly and unnecessary by Brown, will not proceed.
Driving the news: Darren Vogt, who had strong backing from U.S. Sen. Jim Banks and Attorney General Todd Rokita, filed to dismiss his recount petition without explanation.
- Vogt cited no reason for his decision but was without legal representation after his attorney withdrew.
The big picture: This development highlights the ongoing influence of major Republican figures and their financial contributions in local races.
- Rokita gave $90,000 and Banks $35,000 to Vogt, while Senate President Pro Tem Rodric Bray spent over $150,000 to support Brown. (Indiana Capital Chronicle)
Indiana’s State Budget Reserves Jump 60% in Past Year to $4B
Indiana’s state government cash reserves have surged by $1.5 billion over the past year, driven by unexpectedly high tax collections.
Why it matters: This substantial increase offers Indiana budget flexibility that many states lack, enabling potential investments in infrastructure, healthcare, and early childhood education.
- Gov. Mike Braun highlights this as an opportunity for both fiscal stability and taxpayer relief.
By the numbers: The 2025 fiscal year report shows a 60% jump in reserves, totaling nearly $4 billion as of June 30.
- State tax collections increased by 6.8%, significantly higher than the projected 0.8% growth.
What’s next: Democrats urge immediate action to address unmet needs, emphasizing funding for schools and childcare.
- Rep. Greg Porter advocates for reallocating funds to support programs strained by current budgets.
The bottom line: While reserves are strong, fiscal pressures like road funding shortfalls and pension obligations loom.
- The state’s financial strategy will be crucial in addressing these challenges while maintaining economic growth. (Indiana Capital Chronicle)
U.S. to Impose 25% Tariff on Some Brazilian Imports, Citing Unfair Trade Practices
The United States will impose 25% tariffs on Brazilian imports starting July 22, following a yearlong investigation into Brazil’s trade practices.
Why it matters: This move aims to address what the U.S. sees as unfair trade practices by Brazil, impacting trade relations between the two countries.
- The U.S. targets practices like lax anti-corruption enforcement and Brazil’s own tariffs.
- These tariffs could affect American workers and businesses by aiming to create a level playing field.
What’s exempt: Some products like coffee, beef, and aerospace parts are exempt from the tariffs to avoid disrupting supply chains.
- Indiana’s economy, with $1.3 billion in imports from Brazil, may be particularly affected, especially in sectors like iron, steel, and aerospace.
By the numbers: Indiana exported $1.75 billion worth of goods to Brazil in 2025, primarily in pharmaceuticals and medicines.
The stakes: This move comes as part of the ongoing trade tensions and negotiations, with U.S. officials emphasizing the need for fair trade practices. Brazil’s political dynamics further complicate the situation, as President Lula faces criticism for not negotiating in good faith. (IBJ)
Trump Says He Will Impose 50 Percent Tariffs on Canadian Goods
President Donald Trump announced a 50% tariff on most Canadian goods, effective in 30 days, unless Canada removes “discriminatory” trade barriers against U.S. products.
Why it matters: This move could significantly impact cross-border trade, affecting industries on both sides.
- U.S. alcohol has been removed from Canadian shelves due to previous tariffs.
- Canadian auto imports and dairy products face similar restrictions.
What’s new: The decision follows tensions over Canadian wildfires and retaliation for last year’s tariffs.
- Trump used a 1930 trade law provision, allowing tariffs against discriminatory practices.
- The 30-day delay aims to encourage resolution before implementation.
The bottom line: If unresolved, tariffs will apply to most Canadian goods, including those under the USMCA agreement. (Washington Post)
Indiana Not to Participate in SUN Bucks in 2027
Indiana will not participate in the federal SUN Bucks Program in 2027, as confirmed by the Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA).
Why it matters: The SUN Bucks Program provides $120 per student to low-income families for summer groceries, addressing the gap left by school meal programs.
- This decision impacts many families who relied on the program to provide essential nutrition for their children during summer months.
What they’re saying: Indianapolis resident Dee Johnson expressed concern, noting the ongoing need for food support.
- “It’s always a need,” Johnson said, highlighting the reliance on such programs to supplement household budgets.
The backdrop: Despite holding nearly $4 billion in reserves, Indiana has opted out of the program due to cost concerns.
- State officials cited administration costs as the reason for withdrawal, estimating $5-7 million needed to continue participation.
What’s next: Federal legislation like the Summer Meals for Kids Act could compel future participation.
- Local leaders are advocating for alternative solutions to ensure food security for Indiana’s children. (Fox59)
Indiana’s Largest Broadband Expansion Will Bring High-Speed Internet to 123,000 Homes
The state is set to launch a historic expansion of rural broadband, aiming to close internet service gaps for thousands of rural Hoosiers.
Why it matters: Reliable internet is crucial for education, business operations, healthcare, and attracting new residents.
- Students and businesses have struggled with inadequate internet, impacting learning and economic growth.
- Many rural areas have been bypassed due to low population density and challenging terrain.
Driving the news: Indiana will implement the federally funded Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment program, known as BEAD, to bring high-speed internet to about 123,000 homes and businesses.
- Projects will cover 91 of 92 counties with a focus on rural communities.
The bottom line: This initiative represents the largest government-supported expansion of rural broadband infrastructure in Indiana’s history, with a total investment of $856 million, including local service provider contributions. (IPM)
State of Indiana Fiscal Year 2026 Close-Out Summary
The State of Indiana has released its close-out report for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026, showcasing strong financial performance.
Why it matters: Indiana’s revenue reached $24.2 billion, marking a 6.8% growth from FY 2025.
- This growth underscores the state’s robust economic health and prudent fiscal management.
By the numbers:
- Expenditures totaled $22.6 billion, a modest 1% increase over the previous year.
- The state ended FY 2026 with nearly $4 billion in reserves, a 59.5% increase from the prior year, representing 16.5% of current year revenues.
The bottom line: Indiana’s significant reserve increase highlights its capability to maintain financial stability and respond to future economic challenges.
Go deeper: The Indiana Fiscal Policy Institute’s full summary may be read here. (IFPI)
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Important Dates:
Important Dates:
Tuesday, July 28th at 9:00am: Indiana Recount Commission’s Copenhaver vs. Deery hearing in the SBOA Conference Room (E418) in Government Center South
Tuesday, July 28th at 10:00am: Agricultural Promotion and Regulation Task Force in the Senate Chamber
Tuesday, August 4th at 9:00am: ISC on Financial Institutions and Insurance in Room 404
Tuesday, August 4th at 10:00am: ISC on Roads and Transportation in the House Chamber
Tuesday, August 11th at 9:00am: State Board of Education in Government Center South or streaming
Monday, August 17th at 10:00am: Indiana Early Learning Advisory Committee (ELAC) at 8670 West State Road 56 in French Lick, Indiana
Tuesday, August 25th at 10:00am: Agricultural Promotion and Regulation Task Force in the Senate Chamber
Tuesday, August 25th at 11:30am: ISC on Public Health, Behavioral Health, and Human Services in the House Chamber
Wednesday, August 26th at 10:00am: ISC on Corrections and Criminal Code in the House Chamber
Wednesday, September 2nd at 10:00am: ISC on Roads and Transportation in the House Chamber
Tuesday, September 29th at 10:00am: Agricultural Promotion and Regulation Task Force in the Senate Chamber
We will add interim study committee meetings as they are announced.