STATEHOUSE (July 19, 2016) – Many new laws are now in effect, including policies helping Hoosiers with disabilities.

Indiana joined a growing number of states implementing the ABLE Act. The Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act allows certain individuals with disabilities and their families the opportunity to create a tax-exempt savings account that can be used for maintaining health, independence and quality of life. Now, Hoosiers with disabilities can save tax free and plan for future qualified expenses without jeopardizing their eligibility for other benefits.

Hoosiers can now request an identification card from the Indiana State Department of Health indicating they are medically diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder or another developmental disability. These cards are not required, but cardholders who choose to use them will be better equipped to convey they have a disability to first responders or anyone else. These have proven useful in the event that if, for instance, autistic behavior is mistaken for noncompliance or aggression.

In the coming weeks, I will be providing information on other new laws effective this month. Please contact me at h76@iga.in.gov or 317­-232­-9816 with questions or input.

State Rep. Wendy McNamara