AGP Executive Report

Criminal Justice & Public Safety: Colts WR Keenan Allen was formally charged in Indianapolis with two misdemeanor OWI counts after an Aug. 30 arrest, including operating with an alcohol level of .15 or more (.224 reported in court records). Education & Local Governance: IPS is ending its participation in the Enroll Indy enrollment portal and moving enrollment in-house for IPS-run schools and Innovation Network schools, starting with the 2027-28 school year. Immigration Enforcement: ICE confirmed “Operation Safe Community – Indiana” led to 426 arrests statewide from Aug. 30 to Sept. 3, with local businesses reporting major sales drops amid fear of enforcement. State Politics & Elections: A national voter-rights push is spotlighting Indiana turnout, urging Secretary of State candidates to adopt a “voter bill of rights.” Education Outcomes: Northeast Indiana lawmakers highlighted continued gains on the 2026 IREAD test, with more than 88% of third graders passing statewide. Energy Costs: GasBuddy data shows Indiana fuel prices remain uneven by county, with notable low points reported across E85, midgrade, premium, and diesel.

Indiana Election Access & Ballots: The Lincoln Party’s sunglasses-wearing Abraham Lincoln emblem is set for Indiana straight-ticket ballots, a quirky reminder that ballot rules can still shape high-profile secretary of state races. Public Safety Tech & Privacy: A new look at Flock Safety license-plate camera logs shows some Indiana-area officers typing “LMAO” and other jokes as search reasons, reigniting questions about oversight of mass surveillance tools. State Environment & Energy: The EPA moved toward approving Indiana’s coal combustion residuals (coal ash) permit program, putting the state in charge of a major chunk of CCR permitting. Local Budgets: Knox County council budget talks continue, with a proposed 2027 budget around $21 million and a focus on pay raises and insurance costs. Education Politics: Bloomfield School Board candidates filed for November, setting up a local campaign season with a meet-the-candidates event. Sports & Indiana Connections: Colts WR Keenan Allen was formally charged in Indianapolis with DUI-related misdemeanors after an Aug. 30 arrest. Business/Industry Watch: Reuters reports SK hynix is exploring a U.S. memory-chip deal with Intel, potentially tying into Indiana’s expanding chip supply chain.

Indiana Energy & Environment: The EPA is moving forward with approval of Indiana’s state-led coal ash permitting program, shifting authority from Washington to the Hoosier state while opening a 60-day public comment period. Public Safety: Indiana State Police is recruiting for a new lateral entry program for experienced officers and a traditional recruit class, with applications open through Oct. 13. Courts & Accountability: A viral Fort Wayne arrest video is sparking scrutiny after an officer allegedly told a bystander filming to “disappear,” with two officers placed on restrictive duty during an internal affairs review. Higher Education & Sports: Indiana University baseball player Jacob Gomberg faces allegations of posting sexually explicit images without consent, with the case referred to the university’s Office of Civil Rights Compliance. Local Government & Community: Indianapolis leaders are joining UniverSoul Circus for its opening weekend at Lafayette Square Mall, including guest ringmasters and community performances. National Policy Watch: The U.S. Supreme Court blocked a Trump bid to restrict mail-in voting while voting is underway.

College Sports Policy: Sen. Jim Husted (R-Ohio) is teaming with Rep. Tim Walberg on the TEAM USA Act, which would cap international student-athletes at 20% of rosters at schools taking federal student aid, with annual reporting to the U.S. Department of Education and a start date aimed at 2029-30. Election Law: The U.S. Supreme Court blocked President Trump’s push to tighten mail voting rules, keeping states’ existing processes in place as ballots are already going out in places including Indiana. Indiana Courts & Governance: Lake County is seeking applicants to fill two Superior Court vacancies after retirements, with interviews set for late October and nominees headed to Gov. Mike Braun. Higher Ed & Speech Rules: Indiana public colleges reported a jump in complaints about professors’ classroom speech under the state’s intellectual diversity standards—33 in 2025 versus 14 in 2024. Gender-Transition Litigation: A federal court entered final judgment for Indiana, ending the ACLU’s remaining challenge to the state’s ban on gender-transition procedures for minors. Voter Outreach: The Congressional Black Caucus Institute launched “SO VOTE” to boost turnout among Black and rural voters, with Jim Clyburn helping lead the effort. Indiana Democracy 101: A new guide explains how Indiana bills become law and how the legislative process works.

Utility Regulation Watch: Indiana’s utility bills are getting a fresh look as the IURC weighs how much investor-owned utilities can charge customers, breaking down fixed service charges and variable base-rate costs that could shift after recent AES and other base-rate approvals. Public Safety: Indiana State Police are investigating an officer-involved shooting after a Benton County deputy attempted a traffic stop that led to a pursuit and a foot chase in Benton and Warren counties. Local Government: The Spencer Redevelopment Commission is adjusting its procurement approach for real estate services, moving from direct interviews to a short solicitation period for quotes. Elections & Courts: The Indiana Supreme Court continues to drive high-stakes election outcomes, including rulings tied to disputed Republican primaries. Health Policy: Guardant’s Shield blood test for colorectal cancer screening is set to gain coverage under EviCore by Evernorth starting Jan. 1, 2027, expanding access for eligible Hoosiers and others. Higher Ed & Transfers: DegreeSight rebranded around “Credit Transparency” as colleges lean harder on transfer enrollment and new federal transfer rules. Business & Jobs: Purdue is expanding partnerships with Rittal and Eplan through a new engineering technology lab. Nonprofit Funding: United Way of Danville Area kicks off its campaign with a Radio Takeover fundraiser aimed at boosting local endowment goals.

Indiana Obamacare refund: The White House says Indiana is among 30 states getting $500 per person refunds for alleged federal Obamacare “user fee” overcharges tied to the Biden-era exchange surplus. Indiana elections & governance: Indiana higher education officials are seeking ways to expand access to college credit and credentials in high school, including dual-credit and Indiana College Core alignment, as the state’s new diploma system rolls out. Indiana courts & politics: Indiana Supreme Court coverage continues to focus on GOP primary disputes and ballot access fights, including the Spencer Deery recount saga. Statehouse/utility watch: Indiana regulators are reassessing how utility bills are built—especially fixed charges and usage-related costs—as the IURC’s next regulatory transition approaches. Public safety & tech: Valparaiso approved expanded policy on license plate readers, adding to the broader debate over surveillance tech. Health policy: A new study finds many prenatal vitamins miss label potency targets, though it reports no major contaminant safety concerns. Defense & jobs: General Dynamics Mission Systems received an $11.5M Navy modification to produce Aegis AN/SPG-62 antenna reflectors, with Indiana managing the procurement. Education elections (Marion County): Chalkbeat’s voter guide maps the 2026 school board races across Marion County, where candidates can now list party affiliation on the ballot.

Indiana Utility Watch: Investment analysts are warning clients off Indiana’s investor-owned utilities, saying disputed regulator firings and profit-rate reviews have injected “political intervention” risk into the state’s regulatory climate. Federal Health Policy: President Trump announced $500 Obamacare refunds for nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states, including Indiana, tied to alleged overcharges from federal exchange “user fees.” Indiana Politics & Courts: Indiana’s Supreme Court activity continues to draw national attention, including rulings tied to disputed election outcomes and ballot rules. Local Governance & Public Safety: IU is stepping up hazing prevention after new felony hazing charges against fraternity members, while campus officials expand education efforts with a national prevention partner. Energy & Cost of Living: GasBuddy price reports for the week ending Sept. 5 show Indiana-area fuel volatility, including E15 and E85 pricing snapshots, as analysts point to refinery outages and global oil disruptions. Sports & State Spotlight: Airlines are marketing special routes for major games, including United service from Indianapolis to Lincoln for a top Big Ten matchup.

Indiana Courts & Public Safety: LaPorte County’s prosecutor is facing backlash after a reported plea deal in the shooting of Deputy Jon Samuelson would remove a weapons enhancement, cutting potential exposure in half; the deputy’s family and police union are calling it a slap to law enforcement and are urging the prosecutor to resign. Election & Governance: Indiana’s secretary of state race remains a national watch item, with coverage highlighting the stakes of poll-worker readiness and election administration. State Policy & Courts: Indiana judges are weighing religious exemptions tied to the state’s abortion ban, with the dispute heading through the courts. Public Technology Oversight: Valparaiso officials approved expanded license plate reader policy, while other Indiana localities are moving to restrict or remove Flock camera funding amid misuse concerns. Federal/Indiana Energy: The U.S. Navy plans to deploy an advanced nuclear microreactor at Naval Weapons Station Crane by 2028, adding to Indiana’s growing defense-sector footprint. Healthcare & Cost Politics: FEMA aid is reaching some Hoosiers, but others remain stuck in limbo as disaster recovery continues. Sports (Indiana angle): Team USA’s World Cup run sets up a France final after a semifinal win over Spain, with debate continuing over Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark’s role.

Health Care: President Trump says nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states, including Indiana, will get $500 Obamacare refunds tied to alleged federal “user fee” overcharges from the Biden administration. Public Safety & Privacy: Valparaiso expanded its police license plate reader policy, adding safeguards on access, retention, audits, and misuse as Flock-camera scrutiny grows nationally. Local Government: Kosciusko County moves to remove Flock camera funding from the 2027 budget, while a prosecutor orders immediate takedown of cameras. Courts & Policy: Indiana’s Supreme Court ruled Sen. Spencer Deery the winner of the GOP primary, a key step in the state’s election calendar. Emergency Management: FEMA aid is reaching some Hoosiers after the Aug. 11 storms, with Indiana reporting millions in individual assistance approved and paid for residents in major disaster areas. Crime: Indiana State Police arrested a New Jersey man after an axe attack on two semitrailers along I-80 in Hammond, following a pursuit. Transportation/Infrastructure: A look at Ohio River ferry service counts highlights how few crossings remain in operation.

Health Care: President Trump announced $500 Obamacare refunds for nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states using the federal HealthCare.gov marketplace, including Indiana, tied to alleged Biden-era “user fee” overcharges. Indiana Courts: The Indiana Supreme Court declared Sen. Spencer Deery the winner of the GOP District 23 primary after a recount dispute over ballots missing a county clerk stamp or signature. Gender Policy: A federal judge dismissed an ACLU challenge to Indiana’s ban on gender-affirming hormone care for minors, with the court saying prior rulings leave no path forward. Public Safety & Local Government: Indiana Treasurer Daniel Elliott unveiled RAPID, a low-interest disaster loan program for flood-damaged local infrastructure, offering up to $1 million per community. State Government & Elections: A CNN report says Trump-backed USPS mail-voting mandates face compliance concerns from election officials in multiple states, including worries about local staffing and ballot handling. Community: Hope’s Voice launched “Hope Has a Voice” for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, seeking sign-ons in Knox and Daviess counties. Sports (Indiana): The Colts open the season Sunday vs. the Ravens in Indianapolis.

School Board Races in Marion County: With Indiana’s 2026 school board elections approaching, Chalkbeat Indiana/Mirror Indy/WFYI profiles dozens of candidates across Marion County townships, highlighting everything from property-tax referendums to administrator pay and major district transitions—Lawrence Township candidates stress fiscal responsibility as the district navigates a large building plan; Warren Township races include a push to move fifth-graders back to elementary buildings; Wayne Township incumbents back a referendum tied to teacher retention and school security; and Decatur, Perry, Washington, Pike, Beech Grove, and Franklin Township contests all feature budget pressure from state tax changes and varying levels of competition. Indiana Election Administration: A renewed debate in the secretary of state race centers on whether county clerks need standardized training after recount-related clerical errors in the Senate District 23 fight. Indiana Courts & Abortion: The Indiana Supreme Court heard arguments on whether the state’s near-total abortion ban violates the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA). Health Care Policy: The White House announced $500 ACA refund checks for nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states, including Indiana, tied to alleged federal “overcharges.” Public Safety & 9/11: Coverage also marks the 25th anniversary of 9/11 with reflections on Indiana first responders and how the day reshaped public life.

Indiana Supreme Court & Elections: The court declared GOP Sen. Spencer Deery the winner of Senate District 23 after a recount, a blow to Trump-backed efforts tied to the earlier congressional map fight. Voting Rights: A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit challenging Indiana’s proof-of-citizenship voting rules, saying the groups lacked standing. Abortion & Religion: Indiana’s Supreme Court heard arguments in a case where Jewish groups argue the near-total abortion ban violates religious freedom. State Government: Indiana tapped its director of digital governance, John Stark, as chief privacy officer. Local Government & Courts: Southwest Allen County Schools’ land acquisition fight heads to the Indiana Supreme Court over whether the district has a present or fair future need. Disaster Recovery: Gov. Braun announced new one-stop shops in Marion, Porter and Wayne counties to help storm-hit Hoosiers navigate federal and state assistance. Public Safety: Marion County council meeting removals sparked claims of “abusing his power” after deputies removed an Indianapolis creator. Energy & Cost of Living: Gas prices data showed lows in multiple Indiana counties, including regular at $3.19 in Washington County and E85 at $2.22 in Kosciusko County. Health Care Politics: The White House announced $500 Obamacare refunds for nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states, including Indiana.

Indiana Supreme Court Election Fight: The Indiana Supreme Court will decide a razor-thin Senate District 23 primary after a recount commission tossed out ballots over missing clerk signatures/initials, flipping the result for Trump-backed Paula Copenhaver against Sen. Spencer Deery. Secretary of State Race: Gov. Mike Braun and the Indiana GOP are launching a $1 million ad buy to boost Max Engling in the statewide secretary of state contest that national observers call a “pure toss up.” Election Administration: Lincoln Party secretary of state candidate Greg Ballard says the biggest risk to secure voting in Indiana is insufficient training for county election workers and proposes standardized statewide training. Abortion Rights in Court: The Indiana Supreme Court is hearing arguments on whether the state’s near-total abortion ban should include a religious exemption under Indiana’s Religious Freedom Restoration Act. Immigration Enforcement Funding: Indiana State Police is seeking nearly $30 million in federal funding for surveillance and investigative tools to support work with federal immigration authorities. Childcare Shortage: Indiana employers are spotlighting childcare as a workforce solution, with one example being the Indianapolis Airport Authority’s reimbursement program to reduce turnover. Sports-Law Spillover: A judge granted a temporary restraining order letting former Purdue player Trey Kaufman-Renn pursue a sixth college season while the NCAA challenge plays out. Federal Military Contract: The U.S. Navy awarded Lockheed Martin a $257M contract modification for MK 48 MOD 7 torpedoes, supporting AUKUS interoperability and extending production through 2029.

Defense & Energy: The U.S. Department of Defense says the Navy will install a modular nuclear microreactor at Naval Weapons Station Crane in Indiana by September 2028, aiming to keep base power running during grid, cyber, and physical disruptions. Federal Oversight & Local Projects: Rep. Victoria Spartz is pushing for an independent federal review of Indiana’s LEAP Research and Innovation District and major data center projects, arguing the state’s approach lacks transparency and could saddle Hoosiers with higher bills and infrastructure costs. Public Safety: Indiana State Police arrested a Terre Haute man after a vehicle and foot chase, charging him with felony resisting law enforcement and other counts including meth possession and OWI. Courts & Accountability: A Dubois County man accused of threatening Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith was sentenced to nearly a year of probation after pleading guilty to felony intimidation. Healthcare Funding: Gov. Braun announced $12.6 million in rural healthcare grants for Northwest Indiana counties through the federal GROW initiative. Airport Access: TSA is rolling out “Gateside by TSA PreCheck,” letting approved non-flyers pass security at select airports—including Indianapolis International Airport—to meet travelers at the gate. Community Resilience: A Gary report highlights how residents coped during the Aug. 11 derecho blackout, with neighbors and churches stepping in as power restoration lagged. Education & Campus Climate: A FIRE free-speech ranking again puts IU Bloomington near the bottom, while Purdue earns a much higher mark. Local Governance: Hobart’s plan commission tabled final plat approval for an Amazon Web Services data center plat pending minor site revisions.

Indiana Property Taxes: Lawmakers are still not saying how they’d “end property taxes on the home you live in,” even as a Sept. 29 Warsaw town hall is teased—leaving local government and school finance groups waiting on the details. Immigration Enforcement Funding: Indiana State Police is seeking about $30.3 million in federal money for surveillance tech and vehicles to expand work tied to ICE’s 287(g) program. Airport Security Update: TSA is rolling out “Gateside by TSA Precheck,” letting some non-ticketed Precheck-eligible visitors pass security to reach gate areas at 13 airports. Tax Relief After Storms: The IRS announced filing and payment deadline relief for Indiana counties hit by Aug. storms, with deadlines pushed to Feb. 1, 2027. Indiana Economy/Industry: A manufacturing projects tracker reports four straight months of growth, including 160 new planned industrial projects in August, with Indiana among the top states by project count. Indiana Toll Road/Stadium Money: Indiana is still waiting on the Chicago Bears’ stadium plan while $300 million remains unused in an account tied to toll-road lease amendments. Public Safety/Health: A ProPublica analysis finds ectopic pregnancy deaths have nearly doubled in recent years, with abortion bans complicating diagnosis and care.

LIV Golf Bankruptcy: LIV Golf filed for Chapter 11 in New Jersey, listing $100M-$500M in assets and $500M-$1B in liabilities, with star players like Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau among the biggest unsecured creditors; the league says it’s pursuing a restructuring that could shift majority ownership to a player-first model and return to competition in 2027. Indiana Governance: The Indiana University Board of Trustees Executive Committee will meet virtually Sept. 10 at 6:30 p.m., with a live Zoom feed open to the public. Election Organizing: No Kings announced its next nationwide voter-turnout push for Oct. 17, building on earlier hyper-local events that paired protests with voter registration and community support. Public Safety & Immigration: ICE launched a CDL fraud tipline as DHS and DOT ramp up efforts tied to deadly crashes involving unqualified drivers; separate coverage also highlights ongoing ICE enforcement activity and community concerns in Indianapolis. Tech & Privacy: Indiana named John Stark as its new chief privacy officer, restoring the C-level role under permanent direction after interim leadership. Transportation: TSA rolled out “Gateside by TSA PreCheck,” letting eligible non-flyers access parts of participating airports beyond security to meet family and friends.