Feb. 13, 2003 Letter From David O. for the 86th: 2003 Legislative Session Begins

Dear Friend,

It is my great honor to send this first legislative update as your new Representative in the Indiana General Assembly.

We have a diverse district geographically, economically, racially, and religiously.  We also share common concerns:  the strength of the Hoosier economy, the promise of our children’s future, the safety of our communities, and the health and well-being of our parents.  I will work hard to represent all of you in the months and years to come so that we can address our common concerns.

This term, the Legislature must prepare a new biennial budget.  The duty is made all the more difficult because Indiana, like so many other states in the Nation, has collected less revenue than expected.  Our budget shortfall is very serious, and will pose many challenges.

As a member of the Ways and Means Committee, I will bring your concerns to the table when we craft a budget that improves our state even in these increasingly difficult times.

I have also been appointed as Vice Chair of Public Health and as a member of both the Education and the Technology, Research, and Development Committees.  These committee assignments will enable me to use my background as a doctor, lawyer, ethicist, and teacher to help better our health care and schools and to smooth the transition into the 21st Century Economy.

Here is a brief summary of some of the issues before the General Assembly this term, as well as some of the bills I have introduced.

•  Building for Our Future.  Governor Frank O’Bannon and Lieutenant Governor Joe Kernan have proposed Energize Indiana, a plan to diversify the state’s economy through the creation of high-skill, high-paying jobs.  Energize Indiana will also increase investment in the medical sciences and other leading areas of job growth and help workers obtain the skills they will need in the new economy.

    •  Many Hoosiers are unsure whether we should use the Tobacco Settlement fund to pay for Energize Indiana, or whether we should save the fund for future health care initiatives.  I will listen to you and study this issue carefully to ensure that we use our settlement dollars wisely.
    •  I have introduced a bill to stimulate investment of venture capital both in Indianapolis and throughout the State.  This will result in more companies that start here and stay here.  The bill was heard in the House Labor and Employment Committee on February 12 and approved by a 13-0 vote.  The full House will consider the bill the week of February 17.

•  Consumer Protection will also be a priority.  Proposals are being brought forth to restrict unwanted e-mail (“spam”), toughen penalties against identity theft, and stop the practices of predatory lending by banks and credit scoring by insurers.

•  Healthcare.  To improve access to health care, we will consider bills to make prescription drugs more affordable.
    •  I have introduced a bill to lower the cost of health care insurance for workers who do not receive health care benefits from their employers.

I thank you for the privilege you have given me to serve you.  If there is anything I can do for you and your family, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Best wishes,

David O