16 Hoosier Banker June 2015 GR SPOTLIGHT The Indiana General Assembly concluded this year’s long session on April 29, bringing to a close another successful legislative session for the Indiana banking industry. In addition to finalizing a two-year budget, the Indiana Legislature addressed a variety of issues, including but not limited to: education, common construction wages, ethics reform and religious freedom. A highlight in March for Indiana bankers was the first annual “Day at the Statehouse,” sponsored by the Future Leadership Division of the Indiana Bankers Association. Nearly 50 bankers attended to learn firsthand about the legislative process. Throughout all four months of the session, Indiana bankers and elected officials were engaged and supportive of laws and language favorable to the business of banking. The IBA Government Relations team deeply appreciates the grassroots support of IBA members and the dedication of state lawmakers, who continually demonstrate commitment to community and the people of Indiana. Following is a summary of bills pertaining to the Indiana banking community. BILLS PASSED HB 1001 – State Biennial Budget Rep. Timothy Brown, R-Crawfordsville Sen. Luke Kenley, R-Noblesville Bill summary: For the two-year budget cycle, appropriates money for capital expenditures, the operation of the state, the delivery of Medicaid and other services, and various other distributions and purposes. Details: The original bill draft included language that would have used reserves in the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) budget to fund Regional Cities, the governor’s top economic development initiative. The IBA opposed the taking of the DFI reserves and lobbied successfully in the House Ways and Means Committee to have the raid removed from the budget. Ultimately the General Assembly guaranteed the funding of Regional Cities through the first $84 million raised through the tax amnesty program. Of note, the budget bill included an effective date change that protected the intent of SB 415, which enacts language that prohibits local governments from passing rules or ordinances related to foreclosures. For details, see SB 415, pages 20-21. HB 1102 – Patent Protection Rep. Eric Allan Koch, R-Bedford Sen. Brent Steele, R-Bedford Bill summary: Prohibits a person from asserting a claim of patent infringement in bad faith. Provides that a court may, upon motion, require a person to post a bond, if the target establishes a reasonable likelihood that the person has made an assertion of patent infringement in bad faith. Establishes remedies, damages and civil penalties. Details: HB 1102 was drafted to deter patent trolls. The IBA was supportive of the legislation, as it would have an impact on decreasing demand from “bad actors” as they relate to loosely based patent infringement claims. The bill originally included language that permitted the attorney general to join a lawsuit against someone who had acted in bad faith, if requested. The IBA was concerned about this language, which was removed from the bill before passage. HB 1278 – Transportation Networks Rep. Matthew Lehman, R-Berne Sen. Carlin Yoder, R-Middlebury Bill summary: Requires a transportation network company (TNC) to have a permit issued by the IndiAbout the Author Amber R. Van Til, JD, is senior vice presidentgovernment relations of the Indiana Bankers Association. She can be reached at 317-917-8047, email: avantil@indianabankers.org. Successful Outcome From Busy Legislative Year
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