Bartlett outlines 2025 legislative agenda
State Rep. John L. Bartlett (D-Indianapolis) announced his 2025 legislative agenda, which includes bills enhancing public safety, creating harsher penalties for law enforcement officers found guilty of certain crimes and increase transparency between law enforcement and the general public.
Bartlett's bills include:
House Bill 1047 would require immediate drug and alcohol testing for law enforcement officers who use deadly force during the pursuit or apprehension of an individual
House Bill 1096 enhances the sentence for a law enforcement officer found guilty of a sexual offense
House Bill 1416 would require gas stations to display human trafficking awareness posters
House Bill 1046 would ensure state educational institutions have a diverse supplier network
House Bill 1199 requires law enforcement to contract with mental health providers to assist in calls related to a mental health crisis or a substance use disorder crisis
Bartlett issued the following statement regarding his legislation:
"Public safety is always top of mind for me. When it comes to law enforcement, I believe the vast majority of officers are doing good work and have good intentions for the communities they serve. House Bill 1047 and House Bill 1096 would ensure that the small number of officers who seek to abuse their power will face harsher penalties for breaking their oath to protect and serve.
"Across the country, we continue to hear terrifying stories of human trafficking. From forced labor to sexual abuse, we need to be doing everything in our power to prevent this heinous crime from occurring. House Bill 1416 would require gas stations throughout the state to display awareness posters to alert staff and the general public of the warning signs of human trafficking.
“We all play a part in keeping our communities safe, and I'm proud to say my legislation this year is focused on helping to keep Hoosiers and those traveling through our great state safe."