STATEHOUSE — Another showdown over vaccine requirements appears to be on the way at the Statehouse.
Republican lawmakers began the 2022 legislative session Tuesday by fast-tracking a proposal to ban mandates in Indiana.
House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers) said they plan to take the first vote on the proposal Thursday, with passage expected next week before the bill goes on to the Indiana Senate.
However, Republican Governor Eric Holcomb said he’s still not convinced about the plan, saying business owners around the state know what they need more than do lawmakers at the Statehouse.
Meantime, Indiana Democrats have taken the wraps off their agenda for 2022.
Leaders are proposing a child tax credit and paid family and medical leave.
Democrats also want to use the state surplus, which is expected to reach $5 billion this year, to deal with several issues such as student loan debt, child care costs, and climate change.
Since Republicans hold a supermajority in the legislature, the Democrats’ proposals would need bipartisan support to pass.
