Indiana's new teen worker, happy hour laws go into effect Sunday

(The Center Square) – Sunday not only begins a new fiscal year for Indiana, but it is also the day several laws passed by the state General Assembly earlier this year will take effect.

One high-profile measure that will become official is House Bill 1086, which will allow bars across the state to hold happy hours for the first time in nearly 40 years. However, legislation covering child labor, veterans' safety, farmland sales, teacher hiring and other issues will also be implemented.

House Bill 1093 places Indiana standards on par with federal guidelines for adolescent workers. Starting Sunday, Hoosiers 14 and 15 will be able to work after 7 p.m. local time during the summer with parental permission. In addition, no time restrictions will be imposed on workers aged 16 and 17.

“During my teenage years, I was very proud of the experience and opportunities I gained while working,” Rensselaer Republican Rep. Kendell Culp, sponsor of HB 1093, said last January after the House passed his bill. “By updating our laws, we can give more young Hoosiers the opportunity to learn valuable new skills outside of the classroom while ensuring they are protected.” »

House Bill 1021 creates a “Green Alert,” designed to help Indiana law enforcement and other first responders locate veterans and active military personnel, including National Guard and reservists, who are missing or considered at risk.

Under the new law, Indiana State Police could issue such alerts within 48 hours of a missing person being reported.

State Rep. Stephen Bartels, the Eckerty Republican who co-authored the bill, said the green alert system would provide an important “safety net” for those who have served or are serving the country .

“Our veterans have served Hoosiers tremendously, and this new alert system could lead to lifesaving care for those who need help,” he said.

Lawmakers also passed House Bill 1183, which prohibits foreign adversaries from purchasing or leasing agricultural land and mineral or water rights within the state. The bill also prevents them from purchasing or leasing real estate within 10 miles of a military installation.

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Indiana public sector retirees will also receive an additional benefit. The Legislature approved a 13th check for retired teachers, police officers and other public sector workers. The average extra check to help retirees cope with the rising cost of living will be about $360.

Hoosier workers considering a new teaching career will now also be able to apply for a one-time $10,000 scholarship to help them obtain their certification. Interested individuals must already have their bachelor's degree, receive their first license and agree to teach in the state for at least five years.