The Kruse Report: Summer at the Statehouse: Still a buzz of activity on your behalf

It’s summer, but that doesn’t necessarily mean “vacation” for members of the Indiana Senate. That’s especially true this year.

We operate as a “citizens legislature,” which means none of us make a living being members of the Indiana General Assembly. We all go home to different jobs in different walks of life. That’s what makes us effective. As we go home to our different jobs, we stay in touch with the people we represent.

But just because the legislature is not in session doesn’t mean I’ve put away my Senate folder until November.

Recently, Sen. David Long, our president pro-tem, announced summer study committee assignments. I will personally be serving on four different summer study committees. I will chair the Pension Management Oversight Commission and be a member of the Commission for a Drug Free Indiana; the Prenatal Substance Abuse Commission and the Regulatory Flexibility Committee.

These committees give us a head start on solving problems and an early look at what might make good legislation come session time.

It may be a busy summer in another respect – because of property taxes.

As property tax bills are received, the echoes of discontent are reverberating louder and louder. Already, some legislators have called for a special session. Even the governor has said it might be necessary.

So we might be headed back to Indianapolis soon. Even if we’re not, thoughtful discussions and research will continue on this very important topic.

I’m always eager to represent you and I just wanted you to know that while the legislature is not officially in session during the summer, I’m still working on your behalf, preparing myself for the key votes that lie ahead.

I appreciate our grocery store and sidewalk conversations. They help me stay focused on the needs of my district. I also appreciate the opportunity to write this column and connect with you every week on topics that shape our lives.

I hope you’re having a good summer. Vacations are nice, but as a famous Kansas girl once said “there’s no place like home.” Even though it’s summer, I intend to continue representing the homes we share throughout northeastern Indiana in the best way possible. Thank you again for the opportunity to serve you.