Judiciary

Code publication.

Foreign agent registration, foreign terrorist organizations, and foreign adversaries.

Immigration matters.

Military protective order.

Various judicial matters.

Adoption and foster care matters.

Constitutional amendment ballot language.

Technical corrections.

Permissible unsupervised activity.

Causes of action and damages.

Administrative rulemaking.

Garnishment.

Grandparent visitation.

Funding of prosecuting attorney operations.

Anatomical gifts.

Landlord-tenant matters.

Commercial property services contracts.

Domestic violence reports.

Minor access to social media.

Arrest power.

Maximum practical parenting time.

Liability connected with off-road vehicle use.

Family reunification.

False or fraudulent deeds and affidavits.

Impeachment of a judge or prosecutor.

Various immigration matters.

Code publication.

General legislative matters.

Eviction issues.

Property matters.

Juvenile justice matters.

Parental rights.

Various agency administrative procedures.

Various probate matters.

State comptroller.

Civil legal aid fund.

Various immigration matters.

Marion County small claims fees.

Foreign interests.

Funding for family recovery courts.

Irretrievable breakdown of marriage.

Social media use by minors.

Marijuana advertising.

Tax sale deeds.

Office of administrative law proceedings.

The attorney general and amicus curiae briefs.

Various civil law matters.

False or fraudulent deeds and affidavits.

Landlord-tenant matters.

Rent escrow.

Display of political signs on certain properties.

Landlord pet policies.

Initiatives and referendums.

Marijuana advertising.

Joint custody.

Repair of residential rental properties.

Antisemitism.

Limited liability for obstacle course operators.

Tax sale procedures.

Protection of property rights.

Attorney's fees.

Code publication amendments.

Age verification for material harmful to minors.

Legislative notaries.

Civil proceeding advance payment contracts and commercial litigation financing.

Technical corrections.

Residential real estate service agreements.

Unlicensed real estate solicitors.

Administrative rulemaking.

Administrative rules.

Child in need of services.

Parent-child relationship.

Representation of qualified foster children.

Limitations on interests of foreign countries.

CHINS and TPR proceedings.

The attorney general and amicus curiae briefs.

Tax sale procedures.

Social media use by minors.

Elimination of certain gender specific terms.

Gender based terms.

Concurrent jurisdiction of juvenile court.

Prohibition on lien for medical debt.

Membership of the general assembly.

Gold and silver as legal tender.

Causes of action.

Corrections and clarifications.

Adverse possession statute of limitations.

Consumer data protection.

Court ordered expenses.

Gubernatorial line of succession.

Various probate and trust matters.

Self-service storage facilities.

Machine guns.

Paternity actions.

Sale of tax delinquent real property.

Technical corrections.

Citizenship and immigration status.

Unlicensed real estate solicitor.

Statute of limitation on certain claims.

Data security.

Child sexually abusive materials.

Compensatory damages.

Child support enforcement.

Children and lead hazards.

Compliance with CHINS dispositional decrees.

Physical custody and parenting time.

Real estate land contracts.

Child placement and permanency.

Passenger restraint systems.

Adoption.

Methamphetamine manufacturing in residences.

Recovery in nuisance actions.

Probate code study commission.

Solvent supervised estates.

Uniform trust decanting act and trustee duties.

Residential eviction actions.

Code publication amendments.

Agritourism activities.

Uniform electronic legal material act.

Pro bono legal services fee.

Eminent domain proceedings.

Terms of U.S. Senators and Members of Congress. Applies to Congress for a Convention for proposing Amendments under Article V of the United States Constitution to provide limits to the number of terms that an individual may serve in the United States House of Representatives and in the United States Senate.

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION directing the Congress of the United States to propose to the several states an amendment to the United States Constitution concerning the membership of the United States Supreme Court.

Child placement and permanency.

Abusive litigants.

Provides that the rights set forth in the Indiana Constitution and the Indiana Code apply to a pre-born child as soon as the pre-born child's mother is aware she is pregnant. This proposed amendment has not been previously agreed to by a general assembly.

Protection of life.

Eminent domain by public utilities.

Liability for emergency medical services.

Associational standing for judicial review.

Probate and guardianship matters.

Adoption.

Full faith and credit for tribal court orders.

Probate and property matters.

Civil immunity related to COVID-19.

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION urging Congress to support democracy and the civilian-led people of Burma.

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION directing the Congress of the United States to propose to the several states an amendment to the United States Constitution concerning the membership of the United States Supreme Court.

Recorded discriminatory covenants.

Housing matters.

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION directing the Congress of the United States to propose to the several states an amendment to the United States Constitution concerning the membership of the United States Supreme Court.

Seat belt usage and comparative fault.

Physical custody and parenting time.

Employment discrimination claims in state court.

Liability for emergency medical services.

Civil immunity related to COVID-19.

Religious freedom restoration.

Emergency evictions.

Various housing matters.

Demolition of unsafe buildings.

Child custody and parenting time.

EMS immunity.

Technical corrections.

Recovery of litigation expenses.

Grandparent visitation.

Liens.

Hemp.

Emergency evictions.

Assisted reproduction and gestational surrogacy.

Religious freedom restoration.

Homeowners associations and solar power.

Physical custody and parenting time.

Child custody and parenting time.

Deceptive lead generation.

Disclosure of child abuse and neglect reports.

Eminent domain.

Punitive damages.

Delinquent sewer fees.

Admissibility of coverage limits.

Offenses involving critical infrastructure. Repeals the term "key facility" and replaces it with "critical infrastructure facility". Defines "critical infrastructure facility". Provides that a person who, not having a contractual interest in the property, knowingly or intentionally enters the real property of a critical infrastructure facility without the permission of the owner of the critical infrastructure facility or an authorized person commits the offense of critical infrastructure facility trespass. Provides that a person who recklessly, knowingly, or intentionally damages or defaces property of a critical infrastructure facility commits the offense of critical infrastructure facility mischief. Provides criminal penalties and civil remedies

Fertility fraud and deception. Establishes a cause of action for civil fertility fraud and provides that a prevailing plaintiff may be awarded: (1) compensatory and punitive damages; or (2) liquidated damages of $10,000. Specifies the statute of limitations for civil fertility fraud. Increases the penalty for deception involving the identity of a person or the identity or quantity of property to a Level 6 felony if the offense involves a misrepresentation relating to: (1) a medical procedure, device, or drug; and (2) human reproductive material. Urges the legislative council to assign the topic of fertility laws, including gestational surrogacy, to an appropriate study committee.

Child support. Provides that the duty to support a child ceases when the child becomes 19 years of age unless the child is a full-time student in a secondary school. Provides that in order for child support to continue for a child who is: (1) 19 years of age or older; and (2) a full-time student in a secondary school; a parent or guardian of the child must file notice advising the court that the child continues or will continue to be enrolled in secondary school. Specifies requirements for the content and filing of the notice. Provides that if a party to the child support proceeding does not file an objection or request for a hearing within thirty (30) days after the party receives the notice, the court may, without holding a hearing, issue an order continuing child support through the date on which the child is expected to graduate. Provides that senior prosecuting attorneys include persons employed for at least eight years as a part-time deputy prosecuting attorney. Provides that senior prosecuting attorneys may prosecute criminal nonsupport cases.

Claims concerning user fees. Defines the term "user fee" as a fee, rate, or charge imposed by a political subdivision: (1) that represents a just, reasonable, and proportionate approximation of the use or privilege for use of a service, the benefit conferred by the use or privilege for use of a service, and the costs incurred by a political subdivision for providing the service or availability of the service; and (2) that is not excessive in relation to the costs incurred for providing the service. Provides that, in a taxpayer's appeal of a property tax assessment, a taxpayer may not raise any claim related to the legality or constitutionality of: (1) a user fee; (2) any other charge, fee, or rate imposed by a political subdivision; or (3) any tax imposed by a political subdivision other than a property tax. Provides that: (1) all circuit courts; (2) all standard superior courts; and (3) all superior courts that are not standard superior courts; have original and concurrent jurisdiction over claims concerning user fees. Makes a technical correction.

Business services of the secretary of state. Amends the law concerning the business practices of the secretary of state, including: (1) access to information maintained by the secretary of state; (2) use of electronic information and transmissions; (3) striking the current Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) financing statement form; adding use of a format that meets certain criteria for the filings; and amending the UCC fees; (4) adding to the requirement to include a notary public's Indiana county on an authentication certificate; (5) amending requirements concerning notary public examination and education; (6) prohibiting performance of a notarial act: (a) to benefit oneself or one's spouse; or (b) when a commission is suspended or revoked; (7) specifying a notarial act fee applies; (8) providing for issuance of a certificate of fact for a notary public per signature; (9) requiring maintenance of a remote notary public electronic journal for 10 years; and (10) providing for nonresident corporate service of process on the secretary of state. Repeals current law concerning excavation contractor filings and precontracting documentation of compliance with underground facility damage law. Requires the formatting of certain documents to be approved by the International Association of Commercial Administrators or the secretary of state. Specifies October 1, 2019, as the date for a fee increase concerning the indexing of certain documents. Makes the law concerning remote notarial acts applicable only to a remote notarial act performed after the earlier of the effective date of certain administrative rules or July 1, 2020. Increases the fee that a notary public may charge for a remote notarial act from $15 to $25. Provides that, for certain filings, the provision of an electronic mail address is discretionary. Makes a technical amendment and conforming changes.

Revised uniform athlete agents act. Makes the following changes to the statute concerning athlete agents to reflect changes made in the Revised Uniform Athlete Agents Act: (1) Amends the definition of "athlete agent". (2) Defines the term "interscholastic sport" and specifies that for purposes of the statute, a "student athlete" includes an individual who engages in an interscholastic sport. (Current law provides that a student athlete includes only individuals engaging in intercollegiate sports.) (3) Requires an applicant for registration as an athlete agent to provide on the applicant's application specified information concerning any means of communicating electronically with the applicant. (4) Recognizes the rights of parents or guardians of a student athlete regarding entering into a contract with an athlete agent, when the student athlete is a minor. (5) Requires an applicant for registration as an athlete agent to provide certain additional information. (6) Requires additional information to be included in an agency contract. (7) Provides for additional requirements when communicating the existence of an agency contract to an educational institution. (8) Allows athlete agents certified in a particular sport by a national association that promotes or regulates intercollegiate athletics, and establishes eligibility standards for participation by a student athlete in the sport, to cover limited expenses of a prospective or enrolled student athlete and the student athlete's family under certain circumstances. (9) Expands criminal liability for athlete agents if the athlete agent encourages an individual to take or assist in taking an unlawful action.

Nonconsensual pornography. Defines "intimate image" and creates a civil cause of action against a person who discloses an intimate image without the consent of the individual depicted in the intimate image. Provides that a prevailing plaintiff may recover the greater of: (1) economic and noneconomic damages; or (2) statutory damages not to exceed $10,000; plus attorney's fees, court costs, and other relief, including injunctive relief. Establishes criteria to be used by the trier of fact in determining damages. Provides that an interactive computer service may not be liable for disclosing nonconsensual pornography.

Lake Michigan shore zone administrative rules. Defines "Lake Michigan shore zone" as the land between the ordinary high water mark of Lake Michigan and the lakeside property line of a privately owned lot or tract of land described by metes and bounds. Defines "ordinary high water mark". Provides that a Lake Michigan shore zone includes a seawall constructed on the lakeside property line of a privately owned lot or tract of land described by metes and bounds. Authorizes the natural resources commission (commission) to adopt rules concerning: (1) the movement of sand across a Lake Michigan shore zone through natural forces or otherwise and the return of the sand to the Lake Michigan shore; (2) the flow of water, including water from a source on a privately owned lot or tract of land, across a Lake Michigan shore zone; (3) permitting and specifications for any maintenance, construction, or another similar activity in the Lake Michigan shore zone related to beach grooming, sea walls, revetments, secondary erosion control, and retaining walls; and (4) other matters relating to the use of Lake Michigan shore zones. Provides that the rules adopted by the commission supersede an ordinance of a unit of local government, including a zoning ordinance, that is inconsistent with the adopted rules. Provides that a person who goes on the property of another for the purpose of: (1) going to or departing Lake Michigan public trust land: or (2) going to another destination upon leaving Lake Michigan public trust land; does not have assurance that the property is safe for the purpose, and the owner of the property is immune from liability, with certain exceptions, for an injury to a person or property caused by an act or omission of another person using the property.

Punitive damages. Provides that certain limitations on punitive damages do not apply to civil actions where the defendant has been charged with committing an act of sexual misconduct and the act of sexual misconduct gives rise to the civil action. Raises cap on punitive damages for such claims to $250,000. Provides that 25% of punitive damages awarded will go to the violent crime victims compensation fund and 75% of the punitive damages awarded will be paid to the person to whom the punitive damages were awarded. Provides that the exception to the punitive damages law does not apply to a cause of action brought against an employer whose liability is based solely on the doctrine of respondeat superior.

Assisted reproduction and gestational surrogacy. Amends provisions regarding testing of donated human sperm and eggs. Repeals current Indiana law regarding surrogacy agreements. Enacts the gestational surrogacy act, which establishes: (1) presumptions regarding parentage; (2) prerequisites for individuals who wish to enter into a gestational surrogacy agreement; (3) procedural requirements for gestational surrogacy; (4) requirements for gestational surrogacy agreements; (5) support obligations with regard to a child born as the result of gestational surrogacy; (6) remedies for breach of a gestational surrogacy agreement; and (7) provisions for determination of jurisdiction over litigation regarding a gestational surrogacy agreement. Enacts the gamete donation act, which establishes: (1) presumptions regarding parentage of a child born as the result of gamete donation; (2) prerequisites for individuals who wish to enter into a gamete donation agreement; (3) procedural requirements for gamete donation; (4) requirements for gamete donation agreements; (5) provisions regarding parentage of a child born posthumously to a gamete donor; (6) remedies for breach of a gamete donation agreement; and (7) provisions for determination of jurisdiction over litigation regarding a gamete donation agreement. Increases the maximum amount an ovum donor may be compensated for the donor's recovery time from $4,000 to $6,000. Requires legal counsel to have significant experience in assisted reproduction matters in certain instances. Provides that a gestational surrogacy agreement may not limit the right of the gestational surrogate to make any decision concerning the gestational surrogate's right to terminate or continue a pregnancy. Provides that any term or condition in a gestational surrogacy agreement that contradicts or seeks to abrogate a surrogate's right to continue or terminate a pregnancy is void. Provides that the marriage of a gestational surrogate after the execution of a gestational surrogacy agreement does not affect the validity of the gestational surrogacy agreement. Provides that consent from a gestational surrogate's spouse is not required in order for the terms of the gestational surrogacy agreement to be completed or performed. Provides that a person who becomes the spouse of a gestational surrogate after the execution of a gestational surrogacy agreement is not a presumed parent of the resulting child. Provides that if a gestational surrogate initiates divorce proceedings or becomes divorced before the intended parents can establish parentage, the spouse of the gestational surrogate shall not be the presumed parent of a resulting child and shall not be required to sign, or otherwise authenticate, any establishment of parentage documentation required by a court. Provides that certain conditions must be met prior to the issuance of a pre-birth court order by a court. Requires all reproductive endocrinologists and mental health professionals engaging in gestational surrogacy matters to remain informed of recommended guidelines published by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Provides that court orders concerning gestational surrogacy do not provide a court with jurisdiction over the matters of child custody or child support if jurisdiction over the matters is not otherwise authorized. Provides that a court order concerning the establishment of parentage shall be given full faith and credit in another state if an Indiana establishment of parentage court order constitutes a signed record and otherwise complies with the laws of the other state. Exempts donor compensation for gamete donation from certain prohibitions concerning the sale of a human ovum, zygote, embryo, or fetus under certain circumstances. Defines certain terms. Makes conforming amendments.

Liens. Permits a person to discharge a mechanic's lien by filing an indemnification or payment bond with the recorder's office in an amount equal to at least 150% of the lien. Requires the surety responsible for issuing an indemnification or payment bond to: (1) be authorized to do business in Indiana; and (2) be rated at least "A-" by at least one nationally recognized investment rating service. Specifies certain requirements concerning the recording of an indemnification or payment bond. Provides that the filing or deposit of a bond discharges the liability of a person served by a lien claimant not less than 30 days after the filing or deposit of a bond. Provides that a contractor or subcontractor may adjudicate the adequacy of a bond in certain instances. Provides that the liability of a person served by a lien claimant may not be discharged while the adequacy of a bond is being adjudicated. Repeals the current statute concerning the filing of an undertaking to discharge a lien. Urges the legislative council to assign to the appropriate interim study committee (committee) the topic of judgment liens. Provides that if the topic of judgment liens is assigned to the appropriate committee, the following topics will be addressed by the committee: (1) The feasability of developing, preparing, and implementing, before January 1, 2021, a plan, protocol, or Internet based system concerning judgments and pending cases. (2) The feasibility of providing, before January 1, 2021, all necessary training and education to clerks of court regarding any plan, protocol, or Internet based system concerning judgments or pending cases. (3) Any other issue or topic relevant to the development and implementation of any plan, protocol, or Internet based system concerning judgments or pending cases. Makes conforming amendments.

Property tax assessment appeals. Repeals a statute requiring the Indiana board of tax review (board) to recommend that parties settle or mediate any case pending before the board if certain conditions are met. Provides that certain burden shifting requirements do not apply if the assessment that is the subject of the review or appeal is based on substantial renovations or new improvements. Provides that "small claim" means an appeal where the parties have elected to proceed under the board's small claims rules. (Current law defines the term as an appeal of a final determination of assessed valuation that does not

Presumption in favor of joint physical custody. Provides that an award of joint legal custody of a child creates a rebuttable presumption in favor of awarding joint physical custody of the child to the individuals who are awarded joint legal custody. Provides that a finding by the court that a history of child abuse or neglect exists with respect to the child is sufficient to rebut the presumption in favor of joint physical custody. Requires a court that: (1) awards joint legal custody of a child; but (2) does not award joint physical custody of the child to the individuals who are awarded joint legal custody; to cite clear and convincing evidence that awarding joint physical custody to the individuals is unreasonable and not in the best interest of the child. Eliminates a requirement that a court consider agreement between the parties in a custody proceeding to share joint legal custody to be a primary, but not determinative, factor in determining whether awarding joint legal custody is in the best interest of a child.

Punitive damages. Eliminates the requirement that 75% of a punitive damages award in a civil case be deposited into the violent crime victims compensation fund.

Health care advance directive. Allows an individual to make a health care advance directive that gives instructions or expresses preferences or desires concerning any aspect of the individual's health care or health information and to designate a health care representative to make health care decisions and receive health information for the individual. Consolidates definitions of "life prolonging procedures". Allows a minor's parent, legal custodian, or legal guardian to sign an advance directive on behalf of the minor. Requires the state department of health to prepare a sample advance directive. Provides that the appointment of a representative or attorney in fact to consent to health care that was legally executed before January 1, 2023, is valid as executed. Adds cross references. Makes conforming changes. Makes technical changes.

Removes gender specific references from the Constitution of the State of Indiana. Makes certain other technical changes.

Strict liability for dog bites. Holds a dog owner or custodian strictly liable for a dog bite or injury when: (1) a dog bites or injures a person without provocation; and (2) the person is bitten or injured while in a location the person is legally authorized to occupy.

Product liability actions. Specifies causes of action that may constitute a product liability action. Repeals provisions pertaining to product liability actions that are based on: (1) property damage resulting from asbestos; and (2) personal injury, disability, disease, or death resulting from exposure to asbestos.

Civil and criminal immunity. Provides that a civilian who, in good faith, takes an action to prevent serious bodily injury to or to prevent a forcible felony against a law enforcement officer who is engaged in the execution of the law enforcement officer's duties is immune from civil and criminal liability, unless the civilian's acts or omissions amount to gross negligence or willful or wanton misconduct. Provides that the governmental entity that employed the law enforcement officer must indemnify the civilian against any cause of action that may arise out of the civilian's assistance to the law enforcement officer.

Emotional support animals. Provides that a dwelling that is exempt from the Indiana fair housing law is not subject to the requirements applicable to emotional support animals. Defines "emotional support animal". Specifies who may use an emotional support animal, who may prescribe an emotional support animal, and when an individual may be prescribed an emotional support animal. Provides that an individual with a disability that is not readily apparent who submits a request for an emotional support animal that falsely suggests the individual has a disability that entitles the individual to the use of an emotional support animal in a

Liability for rental car theft. Removes from the list of provisions that may be included in a motor vehicle rental agreement a rebuttable presumption that a motor vehicle renter is not liable, in certain circumstances, for losses incurred by the rental company related to theft of the motor vehicle. Requires a damage waiver to cover all damage, loss, and liability, less any included deductible, to which a rental company and renter may otherwise agree concerning the renter's responsibility. Repeals the offense of auto theft and receiving stolen auto parts. Provides that a person who knowingly or intentionally exerts unauthorized control

Cleanup of certain terms. Removes, where appropriate, the terms herein, hereafter, hereinafter, therein, theretofore, hereunder, hereinunder, heretofore, hereinabove, and thereunder from various provisions throughout the Indiana Code and replaces the terms with more specific and clearer terms. Removes reference to the pronoun "his". Makes technical corrections. (The introduced version of this bill was prepared by the code revision commission.)

Action for contribution by railroad entities. Creates a right of action for contribution by a railroad entity against another person or entity that is not an employee of the railroad entity for claims that arise under the Federal Employers' Liability Act. Provides that, if a railroad entity enforces a right of contribution in the original action brought against the railroad entity, the plaintiff in the original action has the right to seek bifurcation of the plaintiff's claim, and have the plaintiff's claim heard in advance of the contribution claim of the railroad entity.

Order to repair tax sale property. Provides that an order for necessary repairs originally issued by an enforcement authority under the unsafe building law to the owner of a vacant or abandoned property that is later sold at a tax sale may subsequently be enforced against the successful bidder at the tax sale. Organizes several tax sale definitions.

Notarial acts. Makes technical changes to standardize language concerning registration of trademarks and regulation related to notarial acts. Specifies requirements related to notarial acts, including use of electronic documentation and technology for electronic notarial acts. Requires the secretary of state to adopt rules related to electronic notarial acts and remote notarial acts. Specifies requirements for remote notarial acts, including: (1) registration of a remote notary public; (2) certification of and record keeping related to remote notarial acts; (3) use of audio visual communication and recording; (4) verification of credentials; and (5) maintenance of records. Makes conforming amendments.

Broadening criminal justice treatment options. Makes various changes to the criminal justice institute's annual report on the impact of criminal code reform on local units of government, the department of correction, and the office of judicial administration. Requires the report to be prepared in conjunction with the justice reinvestment advisory council (council). Adds probation departments, pretrial diversion programs, and jail treatment programs to programs that are eligible to apply for a state grant for community corrections. Replaces the Indiana judicial center with the office of judicial administration for purposes of: (1) submitting the community supervision collaboration plan; (2) approval of

Bail issues. Provides that murder is not bailable if the state proves by a preponderance of the evidence that the proof is evident or the presumption strong.

Code revision correction. Corrects a word processing error by restoring two provisions concerning the distribution of money for standardbred purposes that were inadvertently omitted from IC 4-35-7-12 when that statute was last amended in 2016. (The introduced version of this bill was prepared by the code revision commission.)

Unlawful indemnity agreements. Provides that the law concerning indemnity agreements in construction or design contracts applies to certain design-build contracts. Specifies that "sole negligence" for purposes of liability under a construction or design contract does not include: (1) vicarious liability; (2) imputed negligence; or (3) assumption of a nondelegable duty. Urges the legislative council to assign to the appropriate study committee the issue of whether a provision in a professional services contract that requires indemnification or defense of a promisee for certain liability is against public policy.

Asbestos litigation. Specifies causes of action that may constitute a product liability action. Repeals provisions pertaining to product liability actions that are based upon: (1) property damage resulting from asbestos; and (2) personal injury, disability, disease, or death resulting from exposure to asbestos. Requires certain disclosures regarding asbestos bankruptcy trust claims in civil asbestos actions. Provides medical criteria to set aside and preserve the claims of asbestos and silica claimants without physical impairment, and gives priority to asbestos and silica claimants with malignant conditions and impairing nonmalignant conditions. Urges the legislative council to assign to the appropriate interim study committee

Protecting pets in distressed homes. Provides that: (1) an adult protective services unit conducting an investigation; or (2) a caseworker conducting an assessment; who observes, or has reason to believe, that an animal is a victim of animal cruelty, abandonment, or neglect may make a report to the local law enforcement agency or local animal control officer. Provides that: (1) an adult protective services unit; or (2) a caseworker; who makes a report of animal cruelty, abandonment, or neglect is immune from civil and criminal liability.

State settlement agreements. Provides that neither a unit nor a school corporation may settle a claim by agreeing to: (1) adopt, refuse to adopt, or refuse to enforce an ordinance or policy; or (2) the terms of an injunction, restraining order, or consent decree; without providing the attorney general an opportunity to intervene. Requires the court to certify such a case to the attorney general to provide the attorney general an opportunity to intervene. Provides that the attorney general may present evidence that relates to the state's interest in the outcome of the action, and arguments on the state's interest

Court appointed child advocate immunity. Provides immunity from civil liability for: (1) a guardian ad litem program; (2) a court appointed special advocate program; (3) an employee of or volunteer for a guardian ad litem program or court appointed special advocate program; and (4) an individual acting as a contracted guardian ad litem; when a child is placed on a waiting list for guardian ad litem or court appointed special advocate services.

Distributions from escrow accounts. Repeals a requirement that any funds that: (1) exceed $10,000 and are disbursed from an escrow account in connection with a real estate transaction; and (2) are received from a single party to the transaction; must be wired good funds. Makes a conforming amendment.

Mechanic's liens. Permits a person to discharge a mechanic's lien by filing an indemnification or payment bond with the recorder's office in an amount equal to at least 150% of the lien. Requires the surety responsible for issuing an indemnification or payment bond to: (1) be authorized to do business in Indiana; and (2) be rated at least "A-" by at least one (1) nationally recognized investment rating service. Specifies certain requirements concerning the recording of an indemnification or payment bond. Repeals the current statute concerning the filing of an undertaking to discharge a lien.

Preservation of families. Requires the department of child services (department) to contact a child's grandparent as soon as possible after the removal of the child from the parents if the department has contact information or knows the location of the child's grandparent. Requires the department to provide certain information to the child's grandparent.

Protecting pets in distressed homes. Provides that: (1) an adult protective services unit conducting an investigation; or (2) a caseworker conducting an assessment; who observes, or has reason to believe, that an animal is a victim of animal cruelty, abandonment, or neglect may make a report to the local law enforcement agency or local animal control officer. Provides that: (1) an adult protective services unit; or (2) a caseworker; who makes a report of animal cruelty, abandonment, or neglect is immune from civil and criminal liability.

Postjudgment interest charges. Provides that, in calculating postjudgment interest in matters where there is no contract for interest: (1) no interest is due for the first 10 business days if there is no appeal of the judgment; and (2) a reduced rate of interest is owed if an appeal is filed.

Grandparent visitation rights and adoption notice. Provides that a grandparent's right to seek visitation with a grandchild survives the grandchild's adoption by certain family members. (Current law provides that visitation rights of a grandparent survive a grandchild's adoption by certain family members.) Removes a provision that requires a grandparent to petition for visitation with a grandchild before the date a decree of adoption is entered. Removes the requirement that a grandparent be notified of a grandchild's pending adoption by a family member. Repeals a provision regarding the notice to a grandparent of a grandchild's pending adoption by a family member.

Grandparent and great-grandparent rights. Allows great-grandparents to seek visitation rights with their great-grandchildren in certain circumstances. Provides that a grandparent or great-grandparent may seek visitation with a child if the parent or guardian of the child refuses to allow or restricts visitation by the grandparent or great-grandparent. Establishes factors the court may consider in determining whether granting visitation rights to a grandparent or great-grandparent is in the best interests of the child.

Child support. Provides that the duty to support a child ceases when the child becomes 19 years of age unless the child is a full-time student in a secondary school.

Living wills. Removes language requiring the use of certain forms when appointing a health care representative. Requires the declaration of a living will to conform with certain requirements. Removes language requiring the use of certain forms when issuing a living will declaration. Makes conforming amendments.

Termination of parental rights. Requires the department of child services (department) to file a petition for termination of parental rights if a child's parent accumulates a total of three instances of certain acts or omissions. Adds to the list of allegations that satisfy the requirements for a petition for termination of parental rights an allegation that a child's parent: (1) has accumulated a total of three instances of certain acts or omissions; (2) has failed to maintain consistent and meaningful contact with the child over at least the most recent 12 months; (3) has failed to provide care and support

Transfers to caregivers. Provides that a caregiver may not accept or receive one or more gifts from a senior consumer for whom the caregiver has assumed responsibility for all or a part of the care of the senior consumer who needs assistance with activities of daily living if the gift or gifts: (1) have an aggregate fair market value that exceeds $15,000; or (2) are real estate. Creates an exception for an immediate family member who resides with the senior consumer, if undue influence over the senior consumer is not used. Creates an exception for certain transfer instruments executed before

Garnishment of wages. Provides that a creditor may, by written consent or court order, access wage report information from the department of workforce development for the purpose of obtaining a garnishment order. Requires a court that has issued a garnishment order to a third party to cancel the garnishment order and issue a new garnishment order without a hearing if certain circumstances have changed. Requires an employer that is garnishing a judgment debtor's wages to inform the clerk of courts when the judgment debtor leaves employment with the employer. Provides that, once such notice is given, the employer has no

Issues relating to the death of a minor. Provides that if a minor child dies, the parent awarded: (1) sole legal custody; or (2) primary physical custody (if joint legal custody was awarded to the parents); is the parent who may decide issues regarding the estate of the child and disposition of the child's body, including autopsy, cremation, funeral arrangements, or anatomical gifts. Provides that, for purposes of a custody order, "health care" includes the disposition of a minor child's body upon the minor child's death.

Leases and sales of real property. Amends the statute concerning landlord and tenant relations to provide that a unit may not regulate rental rates for privately owned real property, through a zoning ordinance or otherwise, unless the regulation is authorized by an act of the general assembly. (Current law provides that regulation of rental rates for such property must be authorized by an act of the general assembly.) Prohibits a political subdivision from imposing certain penalties against a tenant, an owner, or a landlord for a contact made to request law enforcement or other emergency assistance for one or more

Child neglect defense. Specifies under the safe haven law that it is a defense to a claim of neglect of a dependent if the individual left the child: (1) with a person who is an emergency medical services provider; or (2) in a newborn safety device that meets the specified requirements. Allows a newborn safety device that was installed on January 1, 2017, to continue to operate. Provides civil immunity for a hospital that operates a newborn safety device if the device meets specified requirements, unless the act or omission constitutes gross negligence or willful or wanton misconduct. Provides that

Constitutional amendment ballot language. Prescribes the ballot language for the proposed constitutional amendment concerning the state budget.

Access to identifying information. Requires the state registrar to search death certificates in the state registrar's possession and the State and Territorial Exchange of Vital Events (STEVE) Exchange System if an eligible individual submits a request for the release of identifying information of a birth parent or adoptee. (Current law requires the state registrar to search death certificates in the state registrar's possession.) Provides, with exceptions under current law, that a consent of an adoptee or birth parent is not required if the individual requesting the identifying information submits records from the STEVE system indicating that the adoptee or birth

Real property improvement contracts. Amends the statute concerning home improvement contracts to do the following: (1) Redesignate a "home improvement contract" a "real property improvement contract" and make conforming changes in terminology throughout the statute. (2) Specify that for purposes of the statute, improvements include interior improvements made to real property, including improvements made to a basement. (3) Expand a consumer's right to cancel a contract to include canceling a contract before midnight on the third business day after the later of the following: (A) The date the contract is signed by the consumer and the real property improvement supplier.

Liens on abandoned or towed vehicles. Adds state agencies to the definition of "public agency". Broadens the application of IC 9-22-1-23 to include all holders of mechanic's liens. Requires that additional information be included in the notification to a person whose vehicle was towed to a storage yard or towing service. Specifies that a lienholder's failure to comply with certain notice requirements may result in civil damages. Provides that proof of receipt of notice for a mechanic's lien by the owner of a vehicle subject to the mechanic's lien is not required in certain instances. Provides that, if there is

Notaries public and trademarks. Provides that a person who wishes to register a trademark must file an electronic application for the registration of the trademark. Allows the governor to appoint notaries public in certain instances. Describes permitted notarial acts. Provides that notarial acts performed in another state are presumptively valid in certain instances. Provides that notarial acts performed: (1) under the authority of; and (2) within the jurisdiction of; a federally recognized tribe are presumptively valid in certain instances. Provides that notarial acts performed by foreign governments or nations are presumptively valid in certain instances. Specifies records should be notarized.

DNA for felony arrestees. Requires every person arrested for a felony after December 31, 2017, to submit a DNA sample, and specifies that the sample may be obtained only by buccal swab. Provides that the DNA sample may not be shipped for DNA identification unless the arrestee was arrested pursuant to a felony arrest warrant or a court has found probable cause for the felony arrest. Provides for removal of a DNA sample from the data base if: (1) the person is acquitted of all felony charges or the charges are converted to misdemeanors; (2) all felony charges against the

Authority to solemnize marriages. Authorizes the governor, the lieutenant governor, and members of the general assembly to solemnize marriages, and specifies that they may not accept money for solemnizing a marriage.

Technical corrections. Resolves technical problems in the Indiana Code. Provides that the technical corrections bill may be referred to as the "technical corrections bill of the 2017 general assembly". Specifies that the title may be used in the lead-in line of each SECTION of another bill to identify the provisions added, amended, or repealed by the technical corrections bill that are also amended or repealed in another bill being considered during the 2017 legislative session. Provides the publisher of the Indiana Code with guidance concerning resolution of amend/repeal conflicts between the technical corrections bill and other bills passed during the

Health care consent. Provides that an adult grandchild may consent to health care for an individual incapable of consenting if a health care representative has not been appointed, is not reasonably available, declines to act, or is unknown to the health care provider. Provides that a grandparent may consent to health care for a grandchild incapable of consenting if a health care representative has not been appointed, is not reasonably available, declines to act, or is unknown to the health care provider. Provides that a grandparent also may consent to health care for a minor grandchild if a guardian or

Indiana Uniform Voidable Transactions Act. Enacts the Indiana Uniform Voidable Transactions Act (Act), governing the ability of a creditor to nullify certain transfers made by a debtor. Specifies that comments released by a committee of the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws shall not be considered as authority in interpreting solely the Act.

Service of process fees. Makes the clerk responsible for collecting service of process fees. Raises the service of process fee from $13 to $28. Reinstates the prohibition on collection of service of process fees more than one time in a case. Specifies that $3 of each service of process fee shall be distributed, by the county auditor, to the clerk's record perpetuation fund. Makes conforming technical amendments.

Study of civil forfeiture laws. Urges the legislative counsel to assign to a study committee the topic of civil forfeiture laws. Provides that the study committee issue a final report to the legislative counsel containing the study committee's findings and recommendations not later than November 1, 2017.

Homeowner associations and solar power. Prohibits a homeowners association from adopting or enforcing certain rules, covenants, declarations of restrictions, and other governing documents, after June 30, 2017, concerning solar energy systems.

DNA samples of felony arrestees. Requires every person arrested for a felony after June 30, 2017, to submit a DNA sample, and specifies that the sample may be obtained only by buccal swab. Provides that a DNA sample may be obtained from a person arrested without a warrant for a felony, but that the DNA sample may not be shipped for DNA identification until a court has found probable cause for the felony arrest. Provides for the expungement of a DNA sample taken from a person if the person is acquitted of all felony charges, all felony charges are dismissed,

Marriage licenses. Allows the clerk of a circuit court to issue a marriage license to an individual who: (1) is unable to appear in person before the clerk due to physical illness or infirmity; or (2) is being treated with a narcotic drug due to physical illness or infirmity; if the individual provides affidavits from the individual and a licensed physician concerning the physical illness or infirmity. Requires the clerk of a circuit court to notify individuals to whom the clerk refuses to issue a marriage license that the individuals may request a court hearing regarding the refusal. Allows the

Establishes the Indiana permanent fund (fund) in the state treasury. Provides that the fund consists of: (1) 50% or such other greater percentage established by law of any general fund budget surplus realized during a state fiscal year; (2) appropriations made to the fund; and (3) other sources designated by law. Provides for the allocation of income among the fund, the state general fund, and other state funds designated by law. Provides that the principal of the fund may be used only for those investments specifically designated by law as eligible for investment from the fund.

Provides that the Constitution of the State of Indiana guarantees rights for crime victims.

Provides that the people of Indiana may propose and adopt amendments to the Constitution of the State of Indiana and propose and enact statutes independent of the General Assembly through initiative. Provides that the people of Indiana may approve or reject through referendum any statute or part of any statute enacted by the General Assembly. This proposed amendment has not been previously agreed to by a general assembly.

Attorney discipline. Requires that before a malpractice or disciplinary action against an attorney may proceed, the complaint by the client against the attorney must be submitted to mediation.

Action for contribution for railroad employees. Creates a right of action for contribution against a third party for claims that arise under the Federal Employers' Liability Act.

Visitation for former foster parents. Provides that a foster parent may file a petition seeking visitation rights with a child if the child was placed under the care and supervision of the foster parent for at least 12 months. Requires the court to enter a decree after holding a hearing. Allows the court to modify an order granting or denying visitation rights. Requires the department of child services to provide notification to a foster parent if the parent-child relationship of a child who was placed under the care and supervision of the foster parent for at least 12 months is

Uniform real property electronic recording act. Enacts the Uniform Real Property Electronic Recording Act, which provides for the recording of electronic documents related to title to real property. Establishes the electronic recording commission to adopt standards to implement the statute.

Issues relating to the death of a minor. Provides that if a minor child dies, the parent awarded: (1) sole legal custody; or (2) primary physical custody (if joint legal custody was awarded to the parents); is the parent who may decide issues regarding the disposition of the child's body, including autopsy, cremation, funeral arrangements, or anatomical gifts.

De facto custodian. Amends the minimum time requirement for a caregiver to meet the definition of de facto custodian. Adds factors to be considered by the court in determining whether to award custody of a child to a de facto custodian.

Product liability actions. Specifies causes of action that may constitute a product liability action. Repeals provisions pertaining to product liability actions that are based upon: (1) property damage resulting from asbestos; and (2) personal injury, disability, disease, or death resulting from exposure to asbestos.

Lien for repairs to abandoned property. Provides that a tax sale certificate holder who enters the premises of certain vacant or abandoned real property to perform the action of: (1) securing the real property; (2) removing trash or debris from the grounds of the real property; (3) mowing the grounds of the real property; or (4) removing or painting over graffiti on the real property; has a lien on the real property equal to the amount of the reasonable value of labor performed and materials used to perform the action.

Grandparent and great-grandparent rights. Allows great-grandparents to seek visitation rights with their great-grandchildren in certain circumstances. Provides that a grandparent or great-grandparent may seek visitation with a child if the parent or guardian of the child refuses to allow or restricts visitation by the grandparent or great-grandparent. Establishes factors the court may consider in determining whether granting visitation rights to a grandparent or great-grandparent is in the best interests of the child.

Fingerprinting fee for adoption. Provides that if a petitioner for adoption seeks to adopt a child who is under the care and supervision of the department of child services at the time of or any time after the filing of a petition for adoption, the department may pay the fees and other costs of the criminal history check required for the petitioner.

Child custody petitions. Prohibits the department of child services, an agency or person authorized to act on behalf of the department of child services, or a similar agency or county office with similar responsibilities in another state from filing a petition seeking a determination of custody of a child.

Marriage. Eliminates the requirements that: (1) individuals obtain a marriage license before being married; (2) a marriage be solemnized by an individual specified by state law; and (3) a marriage license be filed with a circuit court clerk and the state department of health. Provides for marriage by marriage contract by any two individuals who are competent to contract in Indiana or otherwise permitted to marry in Indiana.

Snow removal services contracts. Provides that any provision in certain contracts for snow removal services that purports to release: (1) a person that performs snow removal services; or (2) a person that contracts for snow removal services; from liability for negligence, recklessness, or intentional acts is void as against public policy.

Enforcement of ALJ code of conduct. Provides that: (1) the state ethics commission shall receive complaints concerning an alleged violation of the statewide code of judicial conduct for administrative law judges (ALJ code); (2) an action taken based on a violation of the ALJ code is in addition to any remedy provided by IC 4-21.5 (the statute governing administrative orders and procedures); and (3) if there is a conflict between IC 4-21.5 and the ALJ code, IC 4-21.5 controls. Deletes a provision providing that the inspector general is not responsible for enforcing or conducting investigations under the ALJ code.

Retaliatory lawsuits against zoning remonstrators. Specifies, for purposes of Indiana's anti-SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation) statute, that an "act in furtherance of a person's right of petition or free speech under the Constitution of the United States or the Constitution of the State of Indiana in connection with a public issue" includes conduct by remonstrators who express an opinion relating to planning, zoning, land use, eminent domain, and similar matters, even if the eventual determination of the matter affects only private interests.

Medical malpractice. Increases the amount of recoverable damages for injury or death to a patient. Increases health care provider liability limits. Defines "final nonappealable judgment." Specifies that claims from the patient's compensation fund must be paid not later than 60 days after the issuance of a court approved settlement or final nonappealable judgment. Increases amounts paid to: (1) health care provider members; and (2) the chairman; of the medical review panel. Provides that attorney fees may not exceed 32% of the total recovery. Adds anesthesiologist assistants to the definition of health care providers for purposes of the law concerning medical

Uniform Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act. Enacts the Revised Uniform Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act of the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws. Defines "digital asset" as an electronic record in which an individual has a right or interest. Defines "custodian" as a person that carries, maintains, processes, receives, or stores a digital asset. Defines "user" as a person for whom a custodian carries, maintains, processes, receives, or stores the digital asset. Defines "fiduciary" as an attorney in fact, guardian, personal representative, or trustee of a user. Authorizes a user to use an online tool to

Business entities; series limited liability. Makes various changes to the business and other association law, including the following: (1) Requires that an application to reserve or renew a reservation of a name and a notice of transfer of a reserved name must be filed with the secretary of state electronically and makes the corresponding changes to the fees. (2) Establishes requirements concerning plans or filed documents that include terms that are dependent on facts objectively ascertainable outside the plan or filed document for limited liability partnerships, limited partnerships, nonprofit corporations, and limited liability companies. (3) Provides that the name of

Technical corrections. Resolves technical problems in the Indiana Code, including incorrect statutory references, nonstandard tabulation, and various grammatical problems. Provides that the technical corrections bill may be referred to as the "technical corrections bill of the 2016 general assembly". Specifies that the title may be used in the lead-in line of each SECTION of another bill to identify the provisions added, amended, or repealed by the technical corrections bill that are also amended or repealed in another bill being considered during the 2016 legislative session. Provides the publisher of the Indiana Code with guidance concerning resolution of amend/repeal conflicts between

Parenting coordinators. Urges the legislative council to assign to the appropriate committee a study of the use of parenting coordinators in resolving custody and parenting conflicts.

Terminating the parent-child relationship. Allows a parent who is the victim of an act of rape from which a child was conceived to file a petition to terminate the parent-child relationship between the child and the alleged perpetrator of the act of rape. Requires a court to terminate the parent-child relationship if the court finds: (1) by clear and convincing evidence that the alleged perpetrator committed an act of rape against the parent who filed the petition to terminate the parent-child relationship and that the child was conceived as a result of the act of rape; and (2) that terminating

Code revision corrections. Resolves substantive problems in the Indiana Code. Resolves various nontechnical conflicts and problems not suitable for resolution in the annual technical corrections bill, including: (1) a statute that has been both added and repealed; (2) ambiguous language; (3) incorrect references; and (4) results that must not have been intended. (The introduced version of this bill was prepared by the code revision commission.)

Child representatives, foster care, and parenting time. Allows a court to remove a child representative if the: (1) department of child services; or (2) probation officer; demonstrates good cause that the child representative would not act or has not acted in the best interests of the child. Allows certain individuals who are at least 18 years of age to opt out of foster care. Prohibits a court from modifying a previous parenting time order for a parent, guardian, or custodian who is not a part of the allegation of abuse or neglect.

Federal power. Provides that a federal regulation is not binding on an Indiana governmental entity unless the regulation: (1) is substantively identical to a statute enacted as provided in Article I, Section 7 of the Constitution of the United States; or (2) has been specifically approved by a statute enacted as provided in Article I, Section 7 of the Constitution of the United States.

Study of appellate procedures for CHINS cases. Urges the legislative council to assign to the appropriate committee a study of whether there should be additional appellate procedures to review children in need of services determinations.

Delegation of parental powers. Provides that a delegation of powers by a parent or guardian regarding the health care, support, custody, or property of the minor: (1) is not considered placing the minor in foster care; (2) does not subject any party to foster care licensing or rules; and (3) is not considered abandonment, abuse, or neglect, absent other evidence or unless the parent or guardian fails to contact the attorney-in-fact or execute a new power of attorney upon expiration of the original power of attorney. Permits a parent or guardian in active military service to delegate powers regarding the

Complying with federal immigration enforcement. Prohibits a governmental body from limiting or restricting the enforcement of federal immigration laws, including limiting or restricting another governmental body from: (1) complying with an immigration detainer; (2) providing a federal immigration official access to an inmate for interview; (3) initiating an immigration status investigation; or (4) providing a federal immigration official with the incarceration status or release date of an inmate in custody of a state or local governmental body. (Current law allows a: (1) person lawfully domiciled in Indiana to bring an action to compel a governmental body to comply with these

Garnishment of state tax refunds. Provides that if a debt has been reduced to a judgment in Indiana and the judgment has not been satisfied, set aside, or discharged in bankruptcy, the judgment creditor may garnish the part of a state tax refund not attributable to the state earned income tax credit otherwise due to the debtor. Specifies the procedures that the judgment creditor must follow in obtaining the garnishment from the department of state revenue. Allows a writ of garnishment to be electronically filed with the department of state revenue. Excludes from garnishment debt subject to a repayment plan

Issues relating to the death of a minor. Provides that if a minor child dies, the parent awarded: (1) sole legal custody; or (2) primary physical custody (if joint legal custody was awarded to the parents); is the parent who may decide issues regarding the disposition of the child's body, including autopsy, cremation, funeral arrangements, or anatomical gifts.

Lien on vacant or abandoned real property. Provides that a tax sale certificate holder or an applicant for a tax deed who enters the premises of certain vacant or abandoned real property to perform the action of: (1) securing the real property; (2) removing trash or debris from the grounds of the real property; (3) landscaping, maintaining, or mowing the grounds of the real property; or (4) removing or painting over graffiti on the real property; has a lien on the real property equal to the amount of the reasonable value of labor performed and materials used to perform the

Battery on a sports official. Provides that battery on a certified athletic official is a Class A misdemeanor. Grants limited liability protection against civil lawsuits claiming injury or damages to certified athletic officials who: (1) inspect the playing surface and areas immediately adjacent to the playing surface for hazards before the start of an athletic contest; (2) determine if weather conditions are appropriate for beginning or continuing an athletic contest; (3) inspect game equipment before and during an athletic contest; (4) inspect players' equipment for safety and compliance with applicable rules before beginning an athletic contest; and (5) control an

Qualified terminable interest property trusts. Adds rules for the interpretation of qualified terminable interest property trusts. Provides that, under certain circumstances, an individual who contributes assets to a trust and whose spouse is a beneficiary of the trust at the time of the contribution may not be considered to be or treated as a settlor of the trust.

Affirmative defenses in eviction actions. Allows a tenant or a member of a tenant's household to establish an affirmative defense to an action brought by a landlord to evict the tenant or the member of a tenant's household from a rental premises if the tenant or member of a tenant's household presents evidence that the landlord's action is substantially in response to the tenant or the member of a tenant's household engaging in or causing the occurrence of at least one of the following acts within 12 months before the date the landlord brought the action: (1) Making a good

Marriage. Eliminates the requirement that: (1) individuals obtain a marriage license before being married; (2) a marriage be solemnized by an individual specified by state law; and (3) a marriage license be filed with a circuit court clerk and the state department of health. Provides for marriage by marriage contract by any two individuals who are competent to contract in Indiana or otherwise permitted to marry in Indiana.

Tax deeds and conveyance documents. Provides that when a county auditor sends out certain notices for a tax sale by certified mail, the notices must be sent by certified mail, return receipt requested. Requires that a verified petition for a tax deed to real property acquired in a tax sale must include copies of various notices sent by the petitioner, copies of certified mail mailing receipts, copies of certified mail return receipts, returned mailing envelopes, and evidence used by the petitioner to ascertain the owner of property and any other persons with a substantial property interest of public record in

Various tax sale matters. Makes numerous changes to the tax sale statute, including the following: (1) Provides that a purchaser of real property by an installment land contract may request notice of the tax sale list. (2) Adds an alternative provision for a county executive to transfer a tax sale property to a nonprofit entity. For purposes of these provisions, defines the "county executive" of Marion County to mean the board of commissioners (consisting of the county auditor, county treasurer, and county assessor). (3) Provides that a county treasurer may use money held on a person's behalf in the tax

Probate claims study committee. Urges the legislative council to assign to an appropriate study committee the topic of whether a creditor's right to bring a claim against an estate should be extended beyond the current nine month period.

Wage payment and wage assignment. Provides that an employer who fails to make timely payment of wages or withholds wages shall pay the wages due, a reasonable fee for the plaintiff's attorney, and court costs. Provides that if a court finds that the failure to pay the employee was not in good faith, the court shall order that the employee be paid an amount equal to two times the amount of wages due the employee as liquidated damages. Provides that an employee may assign wages for: (1) the purchase, rental, or use of uniforms or equipment necessary to fulfill the

Civil immunity for volunteer health care providers. Specifies criteria for civil immunity from liability for certain volunteer health care providers. Requires the Indiana professional licensing agency to establish and maintain a health care volunteer registry. Provides that an approval of a location where the provision of health care services in which a provider may be immune from civil liability is valid for up to two years. Requires a person who meets the criteria for immunity from civil liability to provide a certain records and results of laboratory and imaging based screenings and tests to the patient. Requires that a person

Substantive problems in the Indiana Code. Resolves various nontechnical conflicts and problems not suitable for resolution in the annual technical corrections bill, including: (1) statutes that have been both amended and repealed; (2) ambiguous language and references; (3) faulty definitions; and (4) references to defunct entities. Replaces certain instances of "lieutenant governor" with "director of the Indiana office of energy development". Provides a definition of "small business ombudsman". Replaces instances of "ombudsman" with "small business ombudsman". (The introduced version of this bill was prepared by the code revision commission.)

Immunity for damage caused rescuing a child. Grants civil immunity to a person who forcibly enters a locked motor vehicle for the purpose of rescuing a child. Does not extend civil immunity to acts involving gross negligence or willful and wanton misconduct.

Limited liability arising from trespassing. Provides that a person who possesses any fee, reversionary, or easement interest in real property, including an owner, a lessee, or another lawful occupant of real property, does not owe a duty of care to a trespasser, except to refrain from willfully or wantonly injuring the trespasser, after the trespasser has been discovered on the real property possessed by the person. Provides that the person may be subject to liability for physical injury or death to a child trespasser under certain circumstances.

Actions against a surveyor. Provides that an action to recover damages for a deficiency in a land survey must be brought against the surveyor not later than 10 years after the date of the survey.

Various probate and trust matters. Provides that a trust may incorporate by reference a document that exists at the time the trust is executed. Specifies that funeral expenses and expenses of a tombstone are expenses of administration. Expands the definition of "person" in certain cases under the probate code to include governmental entities and other legal entities. Provides that a nonprobate transfer to a testamentary trust: (1) is valid upon the will being admitted to probate; and (2) is not subject to claims against the probate estate. Allows a governmental entity or business entity (in addition to an individual) to

Unclaimed property act and savings bonds. Provides that, for purposes of the law concerning unclaimed property, United States savings bonds are presumed abandoned three years after the date the bonds stop earning interest. Provides that all property rights and legal title to United States savings bonds and proceeds from the bonds vest solely in the state. Requires the attorney general to: (1) collect any United States savings bonds escheated to the state, including any proceeds from the bonds; and (2) transfer all money received to the treasurer of state for deposit in the abandoned property fund. Allows a person who

Exemption of military reservists from jury duty. Provides that an individual who serves on reserve duty in the armed forces of the United States or the Indiana National Guard while on military orders is exempt from jury duty.

Religious freedom restoration. Prohibits a governmental entity from substantially burdening a person's exercise of religion, even if the burden results from a rule of general applicability, unless the governmental entity can demonstrate that the burden: (1) is in furtherance of a compelling governmental interest; and (2) is the least restrictive means of furthering the compelling governmental interest. Provides a procedure for remedying a violation. Specifies that the religious freedom law applies to the implementation or application of a law regardless of whether the state or any other governmental entity or official is a party to a proceeding implementing or applying

Synthetic drugs. Requires the publisher of the Indiana administrative code to publish a list of substances declared by the board of pharmacy to be synthetic drugs in a specific location in the Indiana administrative code, and requires the board of pharmacy to include a link to that provision of the Indiana administrative code on its Internet web site.

Religious exemption in state and local contracts. Provides that a contract entered into, modified, or renewed by the state or any of its political or civil subdivisions after June 30, 2015, with a religious corporation, an association, an educational institution, or a society must include language stating that, to the extent permitted under executive order 13279 or Title VII of the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, the religious corporation, association, educational institution, or society is not prohibited from giving a preference in employment to individuals of a particular religion or requiring that all employees and applicants conform

Liability of a real estate licensee. Provides that a licensed real estate broker is not liable for certain real estate related reports, statements, or information except in certain circumstances. Adds a reference to the list of statutes that grant immunity from civil liability.

Debt collection. Amends the statute concerning deceptive consumer sales as follows: (1) Defines the term "debt buyer". (2) Specifies that a debt buyer is a debt collector for purposes of the statute. (3) Requires a debt collector to make certain disclosures to an Indiana debtor. (4) Provides that the failure to make the required disclosures constitutes a deceptive act under the statute. (5) Specifies that the attorney general's authority to recover a civil penalty not exceeding $1,000 for knowing violations of the provisions concerning debt collection practices applies to each violation of the provisions per consumer, subject to a cap

Medical malpractice caps. Increases the medical malpractice cap from $1,250,000 to $1,650,000 for claims arising after June 30, 2015. Provides that payments from the patient's compensation fund are to be disbursed not later than 60 days after the issuance of a final, nonappealable judgment. Increases pay for medical review panel members from $350 to $500. Increases potential pay for the medical review panel chairperson from $2,000 to $2,500. Increases the maximum potential liability of a qualified health care provider for an occurrence of malpractice from $250,000 to: (1) $300,000; or (2) $400,000 if the action against the health care provider

Religious freedom restoration act. Provides that a state or local government action may not substantially burden a person's right to the exercise of religion unless it is demonstrated that applying the burden to the person's exercise of religion is: (1) essential to further a compelling governmental interest; and (2) the least restrictive means of furthering the compelling governmental interest. Provides that a person whose exercise of religion has been substantially burdened, or is likely to be substantially burdened, by a state or local government action may assert the burden as a claim or defense in a judicial proceeding, regardless of

Right to jury in certain administrative proceedings. Provides that a person seeking judicial review of the final revocation of a professional license has the right to a jury trial.

Support for postsecondary educational expenses. Provides that a child support order or educational support order may not include amounts for a child's educational expenses at a postsecondary educational institution unless the party to whom the order applies has entered into an agreement to pay amounts for the child's educational expenses at a postsecondary educational institution. Makes provisions in an order that include amounts for educational expenses at a postsecondary educational institution void unless the party to whom the order applies has entered into an agreement to pay those expenses. Makes conforming changes to remove references to educational support for postsecondary

Mortgage foreclosures. Amends the statute governing the foreclosure of mortgaged real estate to permit an enforcement authority that has issued an abatement order with respect to foreclosed property to file a praecipe for a sheriff's sale of the property if a person files a praecipe for sale, cancels the sale, and a sale does not take place within 180 days after the later of: (1) the filing of the judgment and decree; or (2) the elapse of three months after the date the complaint was filed.

Truancy and runaways. Repeals provisions allowing juvenile courts to modify disposition orders concerning truancy and runaways.

Mortgage foreclosure. Provides that, at any time after a judgment and decree of sale is entered in an action to foreclose a mortgage on an interest in real property, a purchaser or an omitted lienholder may bring a civil action to: (1) determine the extent of the omitted lienholder's interest; (2) determine the amount of the proceeds from the judicial sale to which the omitted lienholder may be entitled; (3) determine the liability and the extent of liability due to negligent misrepresentation, professional malpractice, or negligence on the part of a participant in the foreclosure action who, in the course

Asbestos litigation. Provides special proceedings for asbestos claims. Requires a plaintiff who files a personal injury action involving an asbestos claim to provide information to all parties in the action regarding each asbestos claim the plaintiff has filed or anticipates filing against an asbestos trust. Provides that if a defendant identifies an asbestos trust not named by the plaintiff, the court shall determine whether to require the plaintiff to file a claim against the asbestos trust and to stay the immediate action.

Solemnizing marriages. Provides that a minister of a religious organization may solemnize a marriage.

Internet media. Prohibits a person doing business in Indiana as an Internet media service from entering into a contract with an individual who is less than 18 years of age. Provides for an individual who is damaged as a result of a violation to file a complaint with the attorney general. Specifies civil remedies for a violation.

Counsel for children charged with delinquent acts. Provides that, unless or until a valid waiver of the right to counsel has been or is made, a court shall appoint counsel for a child charged with a delinquent act if certain circumstances apply. Establishes requirements for waiving the child's right to counsel. Allows a waiver of the child's right to counsel to be withdrawn at any time. (This bill codifies Rule 25 of the Indiana Rules on Criminal Procedure.)

Passenger restraint systems. Repeals: (1) provisions specifying that failure to comply with the laws concerning safety belt and child passenger restraint system use does not constitute fault or contributory negligence; and (2) a prohibition against the admission of evidence of failure to comply with the law concerning safety belt use in civil actions to mitigate damages.

Telephone solicitations.

Right to hunt, fish, and harvest wildlife.

Agricultural operations and trespass.

Immunity for providing volunteer health care.

Military personnel jury service exemptions.

Dissolution in cases of domestic violence.

Prices charged to retailers by suppliers.

Security freezes for protected consumers.

Marriage amendment ballot language.

Civil liability with respect to certain fuels.

Property on loan to museums.

Court oversight of certain charitable trusts.

Benefit corporations.

Liens by municipally owned water utilities.

Support for postsecondary educational expenses.

Homeowners associations.

Guardian filing for dissolution of marriage.

Castle doctrine and vicarious liability.

Appointment of delegates to Article V convention

Nonnamed parties in foreclosure actions.

Hospital liens and ambulance liens.

Senior consumer protection act.

Donations of agricultural products and livestock.

Knowledge imputed to real estate broker.

Immediate detention.

Probate and trust administration.

Adoption history information.

Child protection registry.

Constitutional right to hunt and fish.

Petition for name change.

Deceptive consumer sales law.

Abandoned houses.

Sewer and storm water fees incurred by tenants.

Limited liability arising from trespassing.

Nuisance actions.

Indirect contempt of court.

Agritourism liability.

Data privacy.

Accessible parking spaces.

Priority liens for maintenance expenses.

Statute of limitations on land surveys.

Real estate matters.

Disability antidiscrimination.

Abandoned structure liens.

Right to ranch and farm.

Term of office of county auditor.

Military reservist exemption from jury duty.