IASP Legislative Update 2.27.26

Good morning, Indiana School Leaders — As the General Assembly moves toward adjournment, the pace at the Statehouse has accelerated. Conference committees have dominated the week, and final votes may still be occurring as this message reaches you. In this week's Legislative Update Podcast, I focus on legislation that has officially crossed the finish line. At the time of recording, Governor Braun has signed four bills we've been following into law. Below you'll find direct links and a brief summary of each. ✅ HEA 1035 – Permissible Unsupervised Activity Author: Representative Teshka This new law defines "independent activity" and clarifies that a child is not considered a Child in Need of Services solely because a parent allows age-appropriate independence — including walking, biking, playing outdoors, remaining at home, or remaining briefly in a stationary vehicle. While not an education-specific bill, this legislation shapes the broader child welfare framework impacting our students and families. ✅ HEA 1195 – High School Equivalency Diplomas Author: Representative Davis This legislation extends pilot timelines through 2028 and requires students pursuing a High School Equivalency diploma to: Complete the Indiana Career Explorer program Complete a DOE-approved readiness assessment Effective upon passage. This reinforces structure and accountability within alternative diploma pathways. ✅ HEA 1325 – Special Education Author: Representative Pfaff HEA 1325 requires the Department of Education, in collaboration with the Indiana Department of Health, Department of Child Services, and the Office of the Secretary of Family and Social Services, to collect data and make recommendations regarding: Residential placements Developmental preschool Special education services With next year being a budget year, this data-driven approach positions Indiana for more informed conversations about special education funding and service alignment.     ✅ HEA 1036 – Children in Need of Services Author: Representative Wilburn This law requires the Department of Child Services to have in-person contact with an alleged victim before: Concluding an abuse or neglect assessment, and Dismissing or terminating a pending CHINS case. Given recent statewide discussion around DCS processes, this legislation strengthens procedural safeguards. School leaders — often mandatory reporters and partners in these cases — should be aware of this procedural shift. As session concludes, remember: IASP will continue monitoring conference outcomes and agency guidance and will provide additional updates as final language settles. Thank you for your leadership, your advocacy, and your steady presence for Indiana students.