Rep. Teshka’s bill to let kids be kids heads to governor

2-26-26    Thursday News   12 A.M.   E-3

Legislation authored by State Representative Jake Teshka (R-North Liberty) to ensure Hoosier parents can allow their children to engage in age-appropriate independent activities without fear of prosecution has now passed the Indiana Senate and is on its way to the governor for consideration as a new law.

House Enrolled Act 1035 updates Indiana law to clarify that children participating in reasonable, age-appropriate independent activities are not automatically considered to be children in need of services. The measure provides clearer guidance for families and child‑welfare workers by defining what constitutes normal childhood independence.

“Kids should be able to ride their bikes, walk to a friend’s house, or play in the yard without an adult hovering over them every moment,” Teshka said. “That’s not neglect, that’s part of growing up.”
This legislation aims to reduce unnecessary reports to the Indiana Department of Child Services by outlining what qualifies as independent activity. Examples include walking, biking, or other everyday tasks that children can safely handle based on their maturity.

A 2020 study published in Children and Youth Services Review found that mandatory reporting requirements are often misunderstood, leading to unwarranted investigations that traumatize families, disproportionately impact disadvantaged communities, and strain child‑protection agencies. The study notes that more reporting does not improve the detection of maltreatment and that low authentication rates reflect significant overreporting. By reducing situations that trigger these unnecessary reports, Teshka said HEA 1035 helps ensure that state resources are directed toward children who are genuinely at risk. 

The legislation does not limit DCS’s ability to intervene in legitimate cases of neglect. Instead, Teshka said it will help lighten the agency’s caseload so staff can focus on children who truly need assistance. 

To learn more about the bill and follow the session, visit iga.in.gov.