Indiana Drops Race-Based Contract Rules | Indianapolis News

Indiana’s Governor Mike Braun is overhauling state contracting by scrapping race- and gender-based set-asides, replacing them with a strict merit system he says ensures fairness and freedom from bureaucratic bias. The move, timed with the Indiana Black Expo’s gathering to spotlight Black-owned businesses, has sparked tension—especially as IBE President Alice Watson calls the timing bittersweet. Community advocates warn without clear, objective standards, the playing field remains uneven. Attorney General Todd Rokita backs the shift, citing a Supreme Court ruling on affirmative action, and plans to repeal the old law—though existing contracts and veteran-owned business preferences will stay intact. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/52b3a85dd679aa49