Sen. Rodney Pol

Requires a defendant to be present in the courtroom while a victim makes a statement concerning the crime and the sentence, unless the defendant presents a safety risk or causes a significant disruption. Provides that if a defendant fails to appear at sentencing and is later taken into custody, the court may hold a hearing to permit the victim to makes a statement concerning the crime and the sentence in the presence of the defendant.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a standardized process to determine eligibility for advanced DNA testing in unsolved cold cases. It directly affects law enforcement agencies handling unresolved crimes and potentially individuals wrongfully convicted in long-pending cases. The key provision establishes clear criteria for when DNA evidence can be retested using modern technology, replacing inconsistent past practices. This changes how cold case investigations are conducted by requiring law enforcement to follow specific, defined steps to request testing.

Makes the following changes to the law regarding the Midwest continental divide commission (commission): (1) Amends the definition of a "land use and zoning plan" (plan) to provide that it is a plan and not an overlay district. (2) Requires the commission to consider any change or variance in zoning to be consistent with the plan that is: (A) inconsistent with the plan; and (B) not more than 1/2 mile from a trail project approved by the commission and the eligible county or city.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 71) formally recognizes the Town of Chesterton for renovating its town hall and fire station. It does not create new laws or affect policy; it is a ceremonial honor. The resolution was introduced by Senator Pol and unanimously adopted by voice vote on February 27, 2026. It directly acknowledges Chesterton's community improvements without imposing any obligations.

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION recognizing the 70th anniversary of The Arc of Indiana and honoring its enduring leadership and advocacy for Hoosiers with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Maddy summarySR 69 is a ceremonial Senate resolution honoring Roni Embry upon her retirement. It was authored by Senators Hunley and Pol, adopted by voice vote on February 26, 2026, with additional senators added as co-authors. This resolution has no policy provisions or direct impact on legislation; it serves solely as a formal tribute to Embry's service.

Maddy summarySCR 26 is a concurrent resolution honoring Lee Herbert Hamilton, a notable figure (though the context doesn't specify his role). It serves as a formal expression of respect and remembrance from the legislature, not a law affecting policies or people. The resolution has been referred to committees but has not advanced further in the legislative process. This type of memorial resolution does not create legal obligations or alter existing laws.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 68) formally honors Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson through a ceremonial tribute. It has no policy impact or effect on laws, regulations, or specific groups. The resolution is a standard procedural gesture by the Senate to recognize an individual's contributions, as is typical for memorial resolutions. No concrete policy changes or affected parties are involved.

Maddy summarySB 27, titled "Vehicle Bill" (though the bill's actual content relates to stadiums, not vehicles), establishes the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority. This authority is created to acquire, build, and finance stadiums and related facilities in northwest Indiana. The bill outlines the authority's specific powers, including funding mechanisms and operational duties for managing these projects. The bill directly affects northwest Indiana communities by creating a dedicated entity to handle stadium development and financing.

Requires the department of child services, subject to certain procedural safeguards, to have in-person contact with an alleged victim of child abuse or neglect: (1) before concluding an assessment; and (2) before dismissing or terminating a pending child in need of services case with the juvenile court.