As the 2025 Indiana legislative session progresses, lawmakers are considering several key bills that address environmental issues ranging from water safety to climate action.
These measures have the potential to impact communities across the state, especially those that have historically faced environmental injustices, including communities of color. Here are the ones to watch:
PFAS regulation (HB 1366):
House Bill 1366, introduced by State Rep. Ryan Dvorak (D-District 8), aims to regulate per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Indiana’s public water systems. The bill would require the Indiana Department of Health to establish maximum contaminant levels for PFAS, often known as “forever chemicals,” which have been linked to serious health issues, including cancer and liver damage. This bill could significantly improve water quality in communities that have been exposed to contamination, particularly those near industrial sites.
State forest logging restrictions (HB 1447):
House Bill 1447 seeks to restrict logging in designated state forest areas. This legislation is part of a broader effort to preserve Indiana’s natural resources, protect wildlife habitats and combat climate change. By limiting deforestation, the bill aims to help maintain biodiversity and ensure the long-term health of ecosystems that many rural and urban communities depend on for recreation and air and water quality.
Climate change task force (HB 1583):
House Bill 1583 would establish a task force to study the impacts of climate change on Indiana. The task force would be responsible for providing annual reports to the General Assembly and the Governor. This bill recognizes the need for climate action and aims to provide policymakers with data to make informed decisions on how to address rising temperatures, flooding and other climate-related challenges in Indiana’s cities and rural areas.
Single-use plastic ban (HB 1302):
House Bill 1302 aims to ban single-use plastic items, reducing pollution in landfills and waterways. This targets businesses across the state, promoting eco-friendly alternatives. Communities in urban areas, where plastic waste can overwhelm recycling systems, will benefit from this shift to sustainable practices.
Energy audits for government buildings (SB 310):
Senate Bill 310 focuses on energy audits for state buildings, improving energy efficiency. It could set the stage for more widespread energy-saving measures across local governments and public institutions. By reducing energy consumption, this bill will contribute to lower utility costs for residents and cut emissions statewide.
Conservation of farmland (HB 1234):
House Bill 1234 establishes an agricultural conservation easement fund and a land protection program managed by the Indiana Land Protection Board. It allows farmers to voluntarily preserve their land for agricultural use, safeguarding it from development pressures.
Community Solar (SB 541 & HB 1581):
Senate Bill 541 and House Bill 1581 aim to expand access to community solar in Indiana by allowing independent, off-site solar facilities. These bills would enable Hoosiers, including renters and those with unsuitable rooftops, to participate in solar energy programs. Subscribers would receive credits on their utility bills.
For more information about the Hoosier Environmental Council and their efforts to promote environmental sustainability and justice, visit hecweb.org. To track the progress of each bill and learn more about how they will impact Indiana, visit the official Indiana General Assembly website at iga.in.gov.
This reporting is made possible by a grant from the Indianapolis African-American Quality of Life Initiative, empowering our community with essential health insights. https://iaaqli.org/
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Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth.
Hanna Rauworth is the Health & Environmental Reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper, where she covers topics at the intersection of public health, environmental issues, and community impact. With a commitment to storytelling that informs and empowers, she strives to highlight the challenges and solutions shaping the well-being of Indianapolis residents.
