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Comments from the Statehouse:
Indiana legislators need your input
By Jane Fribley
On Nov. 20, your state legislators will convene at the State House in Indianapolis to plan for the 2002 Session of the Indiana General Assembly.
There is much to be done and much confusion about how to do it. It is important for you to communicate your concerns and suggestions to your state senator and representative plus the Assembly leadership and the governor. There are issues that directly affect you. We are also commissioned by Christ to be mindful of the social concerns issues that impact the powerless in our society - "Remember the least of these my children."
Since 2001 was not an election year, no changes in leadership are expected. On Nov. 20.
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The January date on which to convene will be set.
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They could vote to over-ride the Governor's veto of bills passed last session. There seems to be little pressure to do so.
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They can also begin to file bills for consideration in January.
Indiana General Assembly Sessions alternate between 60 days and 30 days in length. This does not include dates spent in hearings, caucus or recess. Even though 2002 is a 30-day session year that could last into March, some delegates are hoping for mid-February adjournment.
Why the rush? Primary elections are in May. As a result of the 2000 Census, district boundaries have been adjusted to fit population shifts. Many veteran legislators up for re-election will lose long-time supporters and need to cultivate new ones. They are eager to get home to campaign.
The good news is that in a election year, legislators are much more attentive to the concerns of their constituents. It is we, not the gift-bearing, big-budget professional special interest lobbyists who vote them into office. We have their ear and need to use it. Call them at home. Attend meetings where they are on the program or apt to be shaking hands.
Address letters to The State House, 200 W. Washington St. Indianapolis, Ind. 46204
The Honorable Senator (name) or Representative (name)
Governor Frank O'Bannon
President Pro Tempore, Senator Robert D. Garton
Speaker of the House, Rep. John R. Gregg
Toll Free Phone Numbers:
Senate: 800/382-9467 Indianapolis. 232-9400
House: 800/382-9842 (D) 9841 (R)
Indianapolis. 232-9600 or 9700
Legislative Services Office (for the public) 317/232-9856
Last updated on 01/14/2004