Indiana Senate Appropriations Chair calls for fiscal caution despite strong 2026 Budget closeout

Indiana closed out its 2026 fiscal year on a positive note, but the chair of the Senate Committee on Appropriations is urging state leaders not to get too comfortable.

State Sen. Ryan Mishler (R-Mishawaka) issued a statement Tuesday following the 2026 fiscal closeout, acknowledging the state's strong financial position while sounding a note of caution ahead of the upcoming 2027 budget session.

"Today's closeout is a positive sign that Indiana is in a strong fiscal position," Mishler said. "I'm pleased to see we continue to build on our state reserves, especially as we begin considering future expenditure pressures that may need to be addressed in the 2027 budget."

Despite the encouraging numbers, Mishler pointed to several significant financial challenges on the horizon. Among his concerns: an over $500 million shortfall in road funding, the Department of Child Services operating over budget, and the unfunded liability of the Pre-1996 Teachers' Retirement Fund.

"Indiana's economic circumstances are evolving, and all these things make it important to remember previous years when difficult decisions needed to be made," Mishler said.

The senator said he remains optimistic about Indiana's current economic standing but pledged to keep a firm hand on the state's finances as budget deliberations approach.

"I will continue to ensure we maintain a position of strong fiscal discipline moving into the next budget session," he said.