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HB 1006

MILITARY SERVICE-TECH

104th Regular Session Introduced by Chris Welch

House Bill 1006 enhances accountability for Indiana's prosecuting attorneys by establishing a review board and requiring annual data collection on the criminal justice system.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1006

Summary of House Bill 1006: Prosecutors

Overview

House Bill 1006, titled "Prosecutors," was introduced on January 21, 2025, and has been signed into law by the Governor as of May 1, 2025. The bill aims to amend the Indiana Code concerning courts and court officers, specifically focusing on the roles and responsibilities of prosecuting attorneys and the establishment of oversight mechanisms.

Main Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of HB 1006 is to enhance the accountability and effectiveness of prosecuting attorneys in Indiana. It establishes a Prosecutor Review Board to oversee prosecutorial conduct, particularly regarding decisions not to prosecute certain criminal laws. The bill also aims to improve data collection and analysis related to the criminal justice system, thereby informing future reforms.

Key Provisions

  1. Prosecutor Review Board:

    • A new board is established to investigate prosecuting attorneys who categorically refuse to prosecute certain laws.
    • The board consists of five members appointed from the board of directors of the Indiana Prosecuting Attorneys Council, ensuring a mix of political representation.
    • Members serve four-year terms and are not reimbursed for travel expenses.

  2. Data Collection and Reporting:

    • The bill mandates the annual collection and analysis of data related to Indiana's criminal justice system, including:
      • County jail populations
      • Community corrections
      • Probation departments
      • Recidivism rates
      • Effectiveness of mental health and addiction programs
    • Reports must be submitted to the Governor, Chief Justice, and Legislative Council by January 1 each year, with public access to certain data by October 30.

  3. Collaboration with Local Entities:

    • Local governments and elected officials, including sheriffs and judges, are required to cooperate with the institute overseeing data collection.
    • State agencies must also provide timely data to assist in the analysis.

  4. Sentencing Policy Recommendations:

    • The board and the Justice Reinvestment Advisory Council are tasked with making recommendations for improvements in sentencing policies based on their analyses.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Prosecuting Attorneys: The bill directly impacts their decision-making processes and accountability.
  • Local Governments: Local officials will need to provide data and may be affected by the recommendations stemming from the board's findings.
  • Judicial System: The bill aims to improve the overall functioning of the criminal justice system in Indiana, which may affect judges, courts, and correctional facilities.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill passed through various legislative stages, including amendments and committee reviews, before being signed into law.
  • It is effective as of July 1, 2025, allowing time for the establishment of the review board and the implementation of data collection processes.

Conclusion

House Bill 1006 represents a significant step towards enhancing the accountability of prosecuting attorneys in Indiana. By establishing a review board and mandating comprehensive data collection, the bill aims to foster transparency and improve the state's criminal justice system.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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