Indianapolis, IN — Governor Mike Braun used a press briefing to outline a series of initiatives aimed at strengthening families and working parents across Indiana. The announcements focus on expanding access to affordable child‑care, providing tax incentives for employers, and broadening paid family‑leave benefits for state employees.
State Investment in Child‑Care
In April, the Braun administration committed $200 million to increase the availability of affordable child‑care. The funding will be directed toward expanding the Child Care and Development Fund voucher program, helping more families qualify for assistance and reducing existing waitlists.
Employer Child‑Care Expenditure Credit
Effective for the 2026 tax year, Indiana’s Employer Child‑Care Expenditure Credit will allow businesses with up to 500 employees to claim a credit equal to 50 percent of qualified child‑care expenses, up to $100,000 per employer. The credit is intended to encourage employers to support their workforce’s child‑care needs and to stimulate job growth.
Paid Family Leave for State Employees
The governor also signed legislation expanding paid family‑leave benefits for state workers. Eligible full‑time employees can now receive up to 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave. Employees recovering from childbirth are eligible for six to eight weeks of paid recovery leave, depending on the delivery method. The program has been extended to include eligible foster parents, recognizing the important role they play in Indiana families.
Infant‑in‑the‑Workplace Pilot
A pilot program will permit a limited number of state employees to bring infants to work during the first six months of life. The initiative aims to provide greater flexibility for new parents while maintaining workplace productivity.
Breastfeeding Mothers and Jury Duty
A new state law taking effect July 1 allows breastfeeding mothers to request an exemption from jury duty, acknowledging the need for reasonable accommodations for nursing parents.
Governor Braun framed these measures as part of a broader effort to support Indiana’s traditional families, uphold parental rights, and promote a strong, competitive workforce. The policies are expected to benefit thousands of Indiana families and set a precedent for other states considering similar family‑friendly legislation.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
