IN HR0038

Indiana has 40 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, including Indiana Dunes National Park (designated 2019), which draws over 3.5 million annual visitors and generates $475 million in economic impact while supporting 5,500 jobs

High water levels and frequent storms have caused severe shoreline erosion, with Portage lakefront most affected, resulting in beach closures and loss of accessible infrastructure including ramps and pathways for seniors and people with disabilities

Construction of jetties and other shoreline structures has disrupted natural sand flow, contributing to erosion of nearby beaches according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Indiana Department of Natural Resources

Resolution acknowledges erosion impacts on public lands, tourism, and natural resources, and recognizes the need for long-term solutions to protect the state's economy

Urges the legislative council to assign a study committee to examine long-term solutions for addressing Lake Michigan beach erosion