Are You Up To Date On All The New Indiana Laws That Went Into Effect On July 1?

Each and every year, usually more often than once, there are a number of brand-new laws that quietly go into effect. As of July 1st, there is a brand-new slate of more than 200 new laws in Indiana (many of which are very helpful, some of which are very controversial, and some of which are just plain wacky and/or fun). So, how much do you know about these new laws affecting Hoosiers as of the beginning of this month? Check out some of them:

1. Senate Bill 77

So, uh, if you've ever wanted to get you a ninja star, here's your chance: SB77 has officially legalized throwing stars - more commonly known as ninja stars - everywhere except for public schools. Finally, I can have that ninja star collection I've always wanted. Finally.

2. House Bill 1422

HB1422 is a good one: designated, existing aging assistance agencies may now establish a memory care program, expanding the scope of available care for those with suffering dementia and/or Alzheimer's to more providers. Also established are the exact definitions of just what a dementia care specialist is.

3. House Bill 1568

HB1568 is a win for women: pharmacists meeting certain requirements are now able to prescribe and dispense hormonal birth control over the counter, eliminating the need for potentially expensive (and otherwise inaccessible for numerous reasons) doctor's visits to obtain it.

4. House Bill 1382

HB1382 is a win for the kids: a robotics competition program is now a thing, expanding opportunities for kids to enjoy STEM through, well, playing with robots. It's an amazing program; we had one like it when I was in elementary school and boy, did we love our robotics club. This is truly exciting for the kids who will love it!

5. House Bill 1207

Finally, a win for our first first responders: HB1207 allows the state 911 board to increase fees, resulting in more funding. This is a win for everyone who may need Indiana's emergency services in the future.

6. House Bill 1354

Get this: HB1354 defines a legal service animal as being a dog... or a miniature horse. I don't know about you, but I feel like having a miniature horse as a service animal would be a blast. Dogs are absolutely wonderful - but come on. I would even name him Lil' Sebastian because, well, as a Hoosier... you gotta.

For a full list of all 250+ new laws (most of which are just bureaucratic red tape kind of stuff, but others are likely to affect the lives of Hoosiers every day) on the official list of 2023 Regular Session Bills. Do you have any favorite wacky laws in Indiana? Tell me about 'em in the comments!