Washington, Indiana Lawmakers Pass Controversial Budgets Amid Legislative Sessions

Indiana lawmakers adjourned the 2025 legislative session after passing a budget that addresses a $2 billion revenue shortfall with significant cuts to public health and higher education, while raising the cigarette tax to generate new revenue. The new budget has sparked partisan debate: Republicans defend the reductions as reflecting actual departmental needs and point to continued investments in K-12 education, housing, and public safety, while Democrats criticize the cuts for undermining public health and academic freedom. Public health funding was sharply reduced from $100 million to $40 million annually, a move Democrats warn could worsen health outcomes. Higher education faces a 5% funding cut, and a controversial provision gives the governor increased influence over Indiana University's Board of Trustees, raising concerns about academic independence. The budget passed largely along party lines, with only one Democrat in each chamber supporting it. Republicans argue the budget maintains fiscal responsibility and state priorities, but Democrats contend it sacrifices long-term well-being for short-term savings.