State Representative J Jordan: Lowering costs, reducing government bureaucracy

Monday, January 19, 2026 at 1:00 AM

By Kathy Bottorff

Indiana House Republicans unveiled their legislative priorities for the 2026 session this week, focusing on reducing costs for families and streamlining government operations.

The agenda builds on recent economic growth, which has seen Indiana's GDP grow faster than that of all neighboring states, with the state now ranking seventh nationally in attracting new residents.

A recent MarketWatch report identified Indiana as one of 15 states currently experiencing economic expansion and growth, outperforming most other states in the country.

State Representative Jack Jordan (R-Bremen) outlined House Republicans' four main priorities for this legislative session:

First is housing affordability, as addressed in House Bill 1001. The caucus aims to expand Indiana's housing supply and lower homeownership costs by rolling back regulations that Republican lawmakers say hinder development.

Energy Costs in House Bill 1002 are the second priority. The legislation would introduce performance-based accountability measures to ensure utilities meet targets aimed at reducing costs and increasing reliability for consumers.

House Bill 1003 focuses on government efficiency. The bill would consolidate, eliminate, or streamline dozens of boards and commissions that Republicans describe as redundant or inactive, reducing the size of government.

Education Red Tape is addressed in House Bill 1004. The proposal would remove certain rules and regulations in K-12 education, aiming to give schools more flexibility and free up resources to focus on instruction.

Republican leaders said these priorities are designed to maintain Indiana's economic momentum while tackling high costs in housing and utilities that affect families across the state.

The 2026 legislative session is currently underway at the Indiana Statehouse.