IN SB0277

Establishes the "Hoosier Communities for a Lifetime" program in Indiana Code, defining communities where residents work together to organize, set priorities, and implement community changes

Specifies 16 characteristics required for a community for a lifetime, including affordable housing, accessible transportation, walkable environments, access to nutritious food, preventive and medical care, retail services, and opportunities for physical activity and social engagement

Requires communities for a lifetime to form partnerships among state, regional, county, and municipal governments to provide high quality of life and enable citizens to age in their community of choice

Mandates establishment of local commissions to advise on community services and support, incorporation of citizen participation in planning processes, and development of strategies addressing demographic changes

Takes effect immediately upon passage as emergency legislation