Gov. Braun modernizes Indiana's Environmental Code, strengthening service-first government

Thursday, April 16, 2026 at 6:00 PM

Governor Mike Braun signed SEA 277 into law in a ceremony Tuesday morning, modernizing Indiana’s environmental statutes for the first time in decades. The new law improves clarity, reduces outdated burdens, and better serves Hoosiers by simplifying and streamlining Title 13, the section of Indiana Code governing environmental regulations.

"This legislation puts Indiana on a path to lead the nation by cutting burdensome regulations, modernizing outdated laws, and making government work better for Hoosiers,” said Governor Braun. "It ensures we’re protecting our air, land, and water while lowering costs and delivering more efficient, responsive service."

SEA 277 streamlines Title 13 by removing obsolete terms, consolidating duplicative sections, and aligning statutory language with current law and agency structure. The law also removes references to programs and offices that no longer exist and eliminates reporting mandates that consume time without providing environmental benefit.

"This law maintains IDEM’s broad authority over rulemaking, enforcement, permitting, monitoring, and every core environmental responsibility," said IDEM Commissioner Clint Woods. "SEA 277 delivers proactive efficiency, ensuring IDEM's focus and resources go toward improving environmental outcomes, not navigating outdated requirements."

In recent years, IDEM has emerged as a national leader in environmental permitting, the primary tool for ensuring that industrial and commercial activities protect both human health and the environment. In 2025, 93% of all IDEM permits were issued ahead of statutory timelines, with most completed within months rather than the years it can take in other states. This efficiency helps businesses move forward without unnecessary delays while ensuring Hoosiers benefit from clean air, land, and water. SEA 277 further strengthens operator relations, modernizing how IDEM interacts with Hoosier businesses.

“If you’re doing business in Indiana, you deserve a responsive government that reduces bureaucratic hurdles,” said Governor Braun. “SEA 277 supports IDEM's commitment to helping operators understand and meet environmental requirements. I am thankful to SEA 277's authors and sponsors for working to put Hoosiers and our businesses first."

SEA 277 takes effect July 1.