HB 1509 creates a new chapter in the Indiana Code requiring disclosure of information about appointed officers serving on state and local boards. The bill defines key terms such as “appointed officer,” “appointing authority,” “board,” “state,” and “political subdivision,” and applies to a broad range of governmental bodies, including state agencies, statewide elected officials, state-created public bodies, and state educational institutions.
Under the bill, any board meeting notice or agenda must identify each appointed officer by name, list the appointing authority, and state the beginning and expiration dates of the officer’s term. The required information must also be made publicly available online, either on the board’s website, the appointing authority’s website, or, if neither exists, through the state’s Internet gateway administered by the Office of Technology. The act takes effect July 1, 2025.
Impact
The bill adds IC 5-14-9 to the Indiana Code, creating a new transparency and notice requirement for boards across state government and political subdivisions. It affects entities that use appointed officers, including boards, commissions, committees, authorities, and state educational institutions, by imposing a duty to disclose appointment details in meeting materials and online. The practical effect is to standardize public access to information about who appoints board members and how long they serve.
Sentiment
The bill appears to have been broadly supported and noncontroversial in the legislative process. It passed the House 89-0 and the Senate 47-0, indicating unanimous approval in both chambers. With no committee transcript available and no recorded opposition in the votes, the overall sentiment suggests the measure was viewed as a straightforward transparency reform.
Contention
No notable contention is evident from the available record. The bill’s requirements are administrative and disclosure-focused rather than substantive policy changes, and the unanimous votes suggest little disagreement over its scope or purpose. If any concerns existed, they are not reflected in the provided transcripts or voting history.