Allen County legislators are outlining several new state laws taking effect July 1 following the conclusion of the 2026 legislative session, with changes focused on child protection, childcare access, agriculture, and tax relief.

Child Protection and Tax Relief

One of the new laws highlighted by state officials is House Enrolled Act 1303, which increases penalties related to child sexual abuse material offenses. State Rep. Martin Carbaugh said the law creates a dedicated section in Indiana Code for such offenses and adds a new crime for distribution of child sexual abuse material, along with harsher penalties.

Another measure, House Enrolled Act 1177, expands Indiana’s employer childcare tax credit program. State Rep. Dave Heine said the law allows businesses to receive credits for costs tied to childcare services, including operating childcare facilities, employee training, and wage increases for childcare staff.

House Enrolled Act 1424, co-authored by State Rep. Bob Morris, is aimed at reducing regulatory requirements for farmers and local vendors. The law is designed to expand opportunities for direct sales of agricultural products and improve access to locally grown food.

House Enrolled Act 1210 includes updates to property tax policy and expands tax relief for veterans, particularly those with service-connected disabilities. State Rep. Chris Judy said the measure increases the property tax deduction for totally disabled veterans to cover 100% of the assessed value of their homes.

Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.