The 2013 legislative session has come to a close. District 44 State Rep. Jim Baird (R-Greencastle) worked on a variety of bills benefiting Hoosiers, three of which have been signed into law by the governor.
"I was privileged to represent the people of west-central Indiana during this legislative session, and although our time at the Statehouse seemed to fly by, I believe the legislation that passed will significantly benefit the lives of all Hoosiers," Rep. Baird said in summarizing 2013 legislation.
"This session, there were many bills that were introduced, debated and voted on," Baird added, "and a few of the bills that I was involved with intended expand in-state college tuition opportunities for veterans, increase state contracts secured by veteran-owned small businesses and provides tax relief on Hoosier farmland."
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Another bill sponsored by Rep. Baird is SEA 564. The bill seeks to increase state contracts secured by veteran-owned small businesses (VOSBs). Working toward this goal, SEA 564 allows those businesses to receive a 15 percent price preference for those contract bids.
Furthermore, SEA 564 requires the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) to simplify contract conditions and assist VOSBs in the bidding process. However, the products and/or services must meet the state's contract requirements, and the VOSB must submit a request for proposal (RFP) and follow all other contract guidelines.
Additionally, SB 564 would allow VOSBs to obtain up to three percent of all state contracts. The bill requires the IEDC to submit a list of all VOSBs to the Indiana Department of Administration (IDOA).
Co-sponsored by Rep. Baird, SEA 319 provides tax relief on Hoosier farmland. Fast-tracked through the legislative process to the governor's desk, this law uses current soil productivity factors for the March 2011 assessment of agricultural land value to remain in place for property taxes payable in 2014. That prevents an approximate increase of $57M on Hoosier farmland.
"I noticed a remarkable bipartisan push this session to put our differences aside and join forces to support bills that positively impact the lives of veterans, farmers and Hoosier families," Baird noted. "There were many issues that were addressed this session, and I was humbled once more to represent my community in the General Assembly to make our great state even better."
Rep. Baird represents all of Putnam County and portions of Clay, Owen, Parke and Morgan counties.
