Key Votes

SB 198-2019 (Sentencing, bias crimes). Allowed longer sentences in crimes based on personal characteristics, stripped of references to sexual orientation, gender identity and race. Yes

SB 516-2019 (Regulation of hemp). Allowed cultivation and regulation of hemp products in Indiana, did not change marijuana laws. Yes

HB 1001-2019 (State budget). Set funding for state agencies and services, including 2.5% annual increases for education, though not directly for teacher salaries. Yes

HB 1004-2019 (School safety). Increased access to funding for security systems and resource officers, was stripped of provisions for mental health screening. Yes

HB 1015-2019 (Various gaming matters). Allowed sports betting statewide and table games in more casinos, relocated a casino in Gary and authorizing a new one in Terre Haute. Yes

SB 1-2020 (Tobacco and vaping). Raised from 18 to 21 the legal age to buy tobacco or vaping products in Indiana. Yes

SB 148-2020 (Zoning and housing matters). Was amended to overrule local tenant protection measures like those in Indianapolis, Bloomington and Merrillville. Vetoed by governor. No

HB 1004-2020 (Health matters). Controlled surprise billing for out-of-network and other costs. Yes

HB 1070-2020 (Distracted driving). Made it an infraction to handle a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle. Yes

HB 1414-2020 (Electric generation). Prohibited utilities from closing coal-fired generating plants without permission from the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission. No

Group Ratings

Professional career

Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR), reached rank of colonel over 30-year career, rising to Director of the DNR Division of Law Enforcement.

Education

• Attended, Police Management, Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy, 2003
• Attended, Indiana Law Enforcement Academy, 1981

Top Contributors

Committees

Homeland Security and Transportation, Chair; Veteran Affairs and the Military, Ranking Member; Appropriations; Health and Provider Services; Rules and Legislative Procedure

District

Population: 128,944.

Race/Ethnic Origin: 85% White, 10.1% Black, 0.8% Asian, 2.2% Other, 1.9% Two or More; 83.5% White Non-Hispanic, 3.8% Hispanic.

Profession