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SB 159

Procedures for obtaining a warrant.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Garrett Bascom and 6 co-sponsors

SB 159 modifies Indiana warrant procedures, rebalancing requirements between law enforcement authorization and judicial oversight for searches and seizures.

Signed by the Governor
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Bill Summary · SB 159

Legislative bill overview

SB 159 modifies Indiana's procedures for obtaining warrants, establishing new requirements or processes for law enforcement seeking judicial authorization to conduct searches or seizures. The bill was passed through both chambers and signed into law in April 2025, becoming Public Law 113.

Why is this important

Warrant procedures are fundamental to criminal justice and Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable searches. Changes to how warrants are obtained directly affect the balance between law enforcement capabilities and individual privacy rights, influencing everything from drug investigations to surveillance practices.

Potential points of contention

  • Specificity of changes unclear – Without the bill text, it's unknown whether changes make warrant approval easier (favoring law enforcement) or more stringent (favoring civil liberties), creating different stakeholder concerns
  • Digital vs. traditional warrants – If the bill addresses electronic warrants or digital evidence access, it may pit privacy advocates against law enforcement modernization efforts
  • Judicial burden and speed – Changes could either streamline processes or add delays depending on requirements, affecting both police efficiency and procedural safeguards

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

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