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Office co-leads bipartisan task force of 51 Attorneys General

Attorney General Todd Rokita took new action this week against illegal robocallers who are trying to scam Hoosiers. He warned four voice service providers that they have been transmitting suspected illegal robocall traffic on their networks on behalf of one or more of their customers.

As a lead member of the 51-member bipartisan attorney general Anti-Robocall Multistate Litigation Task Force, Attorney General Rokita and Section Chief of Data Privacy and ID Theft, Doug Swetnam, and his team have been investigating these providers.

“These annoying and illegal calls not only terrorize Hoosiers but Americans across the nation,” Attorney General Rokita said. “I said it before and I’ll say it again, if the telecom industry won't police itself, this unprecedented task force will.”

In the warning letters, the task force informs the providers that it has shared the findings of its investigations with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which will consider appropriate next steps.

The task force sent warning letters to the following companies:

KWK Communications, Inc.: KWK Communications received at least 129 traceback notices from the industry traceback group between 2020 and 2022, which included high volumes of calls associated with IRS and Social Security Administration scams, auto warranty scams, and utilities scams. In just one month in 2022, KWK allegedly routed more than 20,000 calls with illegally spoofed telephone numbers and more than 8.7 million calls made using invalid Caller ID numbers.

Inbound Inc. Inbound received at least 63 traceback notices between 2021 and 2022, including many about calls that involved imposter scams. Inbound is also estimated to have allegedly routed more than 28.4 million DirecTV and cable discount scam robocalls in a single month in 2022. The FTC previously issued a cease-and-desist demand to Inbound over these scam calls.

AKA Management, Inc. AKA received at least 129 traceback notices between 2020 and 2022, including about calls that were government imposter scams and tech support scams. AKA is also estimated to have allegedly routed about 12.1 million Amazon and Apple imposter robocalls to consumers in a single month in 2022.

CallVox LLC: CallVox received more than 47 traceback notices between 2020 and 2022 warning of unlawful or suspicious robocalls that it helped move into and through the U.S. telephone network, including thousands of calls to people who were registered on the Do Not Call list and calls placed using illegally spoofed telephone numbers.

The letters warned that if these providers continue to transmit robocalls and violate state and federal laws, the task force may pursue further legal actions against these companies and their owners.

The Anti-Robocall Multistate Litigation Task Force of 51 bipartisan attorneys general investigates and takes legal action against those responsible for routing significant volumes of illegal robocall traffic into and across the United States.

Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09) has been appointed to the House Energy and Commerce Committee for the 119th Congress. As one of the oldest and most influential committees in the House, Energy and Commerce oversees critical areas such as energy policy, healthcare, telecommunications, and economic development.

“It’s an honor to join the House Energy and Commerce Committee,” said Congresswoman Houchin. “Indiana has a diverse energy sector, a thriving manufacturing industry, and leadership in healthcare innovation. We are eager to get to work advancing policies that secure our energy future, improve healthcare access, and support economic growth.”

Chairman Brett Guthrie praised Houchin’s appointment, emphasizing her qualifications. “Congratulations to Congresswoman Houchin on being appointed to the Energy & Commerce Committee. Erin’s experience representing one of the most dynamic manufacturing districts in the nation uniquely positions her to be a key advocate for domestic manufacturing. I look forward to working with Congresswoman Houchin to lead the way on passing our America First agenda,” said Chairman Brett Guthrie.

As a former Indiana State Senator, Congresswoman Houchin served on the Utilities and the Commerce and Technology Committees, where she gained experience in issues directly aligned with Energy and Commerce’s jurisdiction. Her work included leading one of the nation’s first broadband expansion bills and advocating for bipartisan solutions to strengthen infrastructure and boost regional economic development.

Houchin’s appointment comes at a transformative moment, with the Energy and Commerce Committee playing a major role in addressing some of the nation’s most pressing challenges. This positions Congresswoman Houchin to effectively advocate for Indiana’s 9th District and the critical industries that drive the state’s economy.

State supporting more Hoosier families than ever before with On My Way Pre-K, CCDF

The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration’s Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning (OECOSL) is re-implementing a waitlist for new Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) and On My Way Pre-K (OMWPK) voucher applicants due to significant growth in both programs.

At this time, the waitlist will impact new child care voucher applicants. Vouchers support low-income families who make less than 150% of the federal poverty level (FPL), which is about $45,000 for a family of four, and have a service need including employment, seeking employment or enrollment in an education or training program.

OECOSL will continue to re-enroll children already receiving vouchers as long as funding permits. The office will reassess the waitlist at the start of the next federal fiscal year in October.

The re-implementation of a waitlist for the first time since 2018 is due, in part, to efforts to improve access, affordability and quality of child care programs. Those efforts have included:

The Indiana General Assembly increased CCDF and OMWPK eligibility to 150% of the FPL, up from 127%, which made more families eligible to participate in a voucher program.
The state provided $35 million in Child Care Expansion and Employer-Sponsored Fund grants, both of which added new programs and grew existing programs, increasing access to child care programs.
The state maximized an infusion of federal funds that started in 2018 and continued through the pandemic to invest in a high-quality child care system.

As a result, more than 30,000 additional children have participated in the voucher program in the last two years.

“The state’s continued efforts to improve access, affordability and quality of child care programs led us to supporting over 70,000 children with vouchers, allowing more families to work or go to school, and improving the state’s economy,” said Courtney Penn, Director of the Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning. “We will continue the important work of ensuring families have access to affordable, high-quality programs near their homes and workplaces.”

Gov. Eric J. Holcomb and the Indiana General Assembly have prioritized early child care and education by creating a more sustainable early childhood workforce and supporting more Hoosier families with vouchers. Both CCDF and OMWPK programs have grown substantially. OMWPK peaked last year, enrolling nearly 8,000 children, up 167% from just 3,000 children in 2019, the first year for the statewide program. CCDF has grown to more than 70,000 children this year, up 43% since 2019.

Once a new CCDF application is submitted, a child is placed on the waitlist. Priority is given to:

On My Way Pre-K applicants
Families who earn below 100% FPL
Children of child care workers

All other applicants will receive vouchers on a first-come, first-served basis, as available.

Information is available to support families and providers as they navigate the transition:

Child Care Waitlist FAQ
Families can call 211 for their local eligibility offices and Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) specialist’s contact information, and for help identifying child care options.
Providers can call the SPARK Help Desk at 800-299-1627 for their local eligibility office’s contact information, and to ask general programming questions.

Effective July 1, 2024, Indiana law requires retailers and craft manufacturers (small brewers, farm wineries, and artisan distillers) located in Indiana with an active alcohol permit for on-premises consumption of alcoholic beverages to hold liquor liability (i.e., “dram shop”) insurance with a total minimum coverage of at least $500,000. The purpose of this notice is to remind applicants and permit holders of the deadlines to submit proof of liquor liability insurance as required by IC 7.1-3-1-6.4. Please review the information below to determine if and/or when you are required to submit proof of insurance if you haven't already done so.

Active Permits:

Proof of liability insurance must be submitted on or before December 31, 2024.
On or after January 1, 2025, permits for which proof of liability insurance has not been provided to the ATC will not be issued or renewed.
On or after January 1, 2025, permit applications submitted must contain proof of liquor liability insurance. Permit applications submitted without proof of insurance will be considered incomplete and may be rejected or returned at the ATC’s discretion.

Inactive/Escrow Permits:

Proof of liquor liability insurance must be provided to the ATC prior to the permit being made active.
On or after January 1, 2025, permits for which proof of liquor liability insurance has not been provided to the ATC will not be activated or removed from escrow.

Proof of insurance must be submitted in the form of a certificate of insurance or policy declaration from the insurance carrier or insurance provider which includes the following information:

The address(es) of the insured location(s) to which the coverage applies*
A specific line or note indicating the policy includes liquor liability coverage, as well as the amount of the insurance coverage
The name of the permit holder (as it appears on permit issued by the ATC) listed as an insured party
The effective date and expiration date of the policy coverage

(*NOTE: More than one permit premises may be listed on a single policy document, but each permit address must be listed separately.)Failure to comply with the liquor liability insurance requirement may result in the suspension or revocation of your permit. For more information regarding the new liquor liability insurance requirements, please click here. For more information on how to submit your proof of insurance, please click here .

Throughout the course of this week, Governor-elect Mike Braun has announced the appointment of several cabinet positions. Below, you can find all of his appointments to date.

Honorable Lisa W. Hershman as Indiana's Secretary of Management and Budget. Hershman brings extensive experience in both government and private sector financial management, most recently serving as Chief Management Officer of the U.S. Department of Defense.

"Lisa Hershman's track record of driving efficiency and innovation in both government and business makes her the ideal choice to oversee Indiana's financial management," said Governor-elect Braun. "Her experience transforming large organizations and delivering taxpayer savings will be invaluable to our state."

As the third highest-ranking Pentagon official from 2018 to 2021, Hershman managed a $168 billion budget and achieved record-setting savings of $37 billion through operational reforms. She led the completion of the Defense Department's first unified budget, merging 28 organizational budgets while implementing a customized approach based on mission and purpose.

“I sincerely appreciate the confidence Governor-elect Mike Braun has placed in me to serve as a steward of the state’s financial resources. Through collaboration with his team and the General Assembly, we will work to drive efficiency, accountability, and innovation in state government,” said Hershman. “Together, we will work to ensure that every taxpayer dollar is spent wisely and that Indiana remains a national model for fiscal responsibility and effective governance.”

The Secretary of Management and Budget serves as the chief financial officer of the state, overseeing Indiana's budget, financial management, and administrative operations. Hershman will be responsible for developing the budget to realize the governor's vision, providing management of agencies in finance, technology, and shared services, and serving as operational oversight across secretary verticals. Hershman will also serve as the Director of the Office of Management and Budget.

A Lafayette resident, Hershman previously served on the Indiana Commission for Higher Education from 2014 to 2020. In the private sector, she has held CEO positions at multiple companies, consistently achieving double-digit growth while reducing costs. She is qualified as a financial expert under SEC rules and currently serves on the board of directors for EchoStar/Dish. Hershman is also an internationally published author on business management reform.

Hershman holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering and Management from Clarkson University and has completed advanced programs at the Wharton School, London School of Economics, IMD/MIT, and Cornell University.

Lisa Hershman smaller Lisa Hershman

Matthew Ubelhor as Secretary of Transportation and Infrastructure. Ubelhor brings 47 years of operational leadership experience, most recently serving as senior vice president of Operations at White Stallion Energy.

"Matt's decades of experience managing complex operations and infrastructure, combined with his service in the Indiana House, make him especially qualified to lead our transportation and infrastructure initiatives," said Governor-elect Braun. “He has a servant’s heart and understands how to do more with less at a time when stewardship of tax dollars could not be more critical.”

A former three-term state representative, Ubelhor served in the General Assembly from 2010-2015, representing Greene, Martin, Daviess, and Monroe counties. During his tenure, he served on the Ways and Means Committee and as majority whip.

In his most recent role, Ubelhor managed safety, production, and cost control for 600 workers across multiple sites. His extensive background includes leadership positions at Peabody Energy, where he oversaw operations, environmental compliance, and workforce safety for 700 employees.

“Fostering long-term prosperity for Hoosier families takes many forms, and I am excited to contribute to Gov.-elect Braun’s efforts to shape the future of our transportation infrastructure,” said Ubelhor. “We have a tremendous opportunity ahead of us to connect Hoosiers in ways that will grow our economy and improve our quality of life.”

As the Secretary of Transportation and Infrastructure, Ubelhor will be responsible for maintaining the state's transportation, infrastructure, and broadband systems to support Indiana’s economic growth and quality of life for Hoosiers. Ubelhor will also serve as head of the Indiana Department of Transportation.

Ubelhor, a Bloomfield resident, began his career as an equipment operator before advancing through supervisory roles to senior executive positions. He graduated from Perry Central High School in 1977.

Matt Ubelhor Matthew Ubelhor

David Adams as Indiana’s Secretary of Commerce. Adams, who most recently served as the state's Commissioner of Workforce Development, brings extensive experience in economic development, innovation, and business growth to lead Indiana's job creation and growth initiatives.

Under Adams' leadership as Workforce Development Commissioner, Indiana's workforce ranking in CNBC's "America's Top States for Business" improved from 48th to 14th. He previously served as Chief Innovation Officer at the University of Cincinnati, where he led the development of the Cincinnati Innovation District that became Ohio's model for economic development.

"David's proven track record of driving economic growth and innovation makes him the ideal choice to lead Indiana's commerce initiatives," said Governor-elect Braun. "His experience in workforce development to drive economic growth, combined with his successful entrepreneurial business track record and ability to attract major investments, will help accelerate Indiana's economic momentum."

A first-generation college graduate and lifelong entrepreneur, Adams was a founding member of the leadership team that grew software company i2 Technologies from $4M to $1.1B in revenue. He also led the turnaround and merger of Indiana's nearly $50B pension systems under Governor Mitch Daniels.

“Governor-elect Braun’s vision for our state’s economic future is bold and one that I look forward to supporting as Secretary of Commerce,” said Adams. “His business career gives him a unique perspective of workforce development and economic prosperity, and while we have great momentum as a state, there is more work to be done. We have an opportunity ahead of us to recruit and build a talent pipeline, and I look forward to working with Governor-elect Braun and the General Assembly to take our state to new heights.”

As the Secretary of Commerce, Adams will be responsible for driving economic opportunity for the state and fostering an entrepreneurial environment for innovation. Adams holds bachelor's and master's degrees in Industrial Engineering from the University of Louisville. He currently serves on the Purdue Research Foundation board and is a Forbes contributing writer.

David Adams

Dr. Katie Jenner will continue serving as Indiana's top education official. As Secretary of Education, Dr. Jenner will be responsible for establishing a unified, student-centered vision across the full spectrum of education, from Pre-K and K-12 to college, and will also retain her role as head of the Department of Education.

Under Dr. Jenner's leadership since 2021, Indiana has made significant strides in education, including securing the state's largest-ever investment in literacy, implementing a comprehensive teacher supply/demand marketplace, and increasing the statewide graduation rate. Her administration deployed Indiana's Graduates Prepared to Succeed initiative, which redefined how the state measures school performance and student achievement.

"Dr. Jenner's proven track record of elevating Indiana's education system makes her the ideal choice to continue leading our state's academic initiatives," said Governor-elect Braun. "Her focus on literacy, STEM education, and workforce readiness aligns perfectly with our vision for Indiana's future."

In alignment with Governor-elect Braun’s agenda, the Administration will focus on college and career readiness, improved literacy and math outcomes, universal school choice, and an increase in teacher base pay.

"I am grateful to Governor-elect Braun for the opportunity to continue serving Indiana's students, educators, and families as Secretary of Education,” said Dr. Jenner. “Over the past several years, we have made significant strides in expanding educational opportunities and ensuring our students are prepared for success in the classroom and beyond. Working together with Governor-elect Braun, our dedicated teachers, school leaders, the General Assembly and stakeholders across the state, we will build upon this progress while addressing the evolving needs of our education system. I look forward to advancing this vital mission in the years ahead."

Dr. Jenner, who holds a doctorate in education from the University of Kentucky and an MBA from Indiana State University, currently leads the Department of Education and chairs the State Board of Education. She previously served as Governor Holcomb's Senior Education Advisor, Vice President of K-12 Initiatives and Statewide Partnerships for Ivy Tech Community College, and held various leadership positions at Madison Consolidated Schools, in addition to being a teacher.

katie jenner smaller Dr. Katie Jenner

Former State Representative Mike Speedy as Indiana's Secretary of Business Affairs. Speedy brings extensive experience in business, law, and public service to the role.

A second-generation real estate investor and graduate of IU's Kelley School of Business and McKinney School of Law, Speedy operates a multi-state real estate development company headquartered in Indianapolis. He concluded 14 years of service in the Indiana House of Representatives, where he chaired the Financial Institutions and Environmental Affairs committees and served as Vice Chairman of Roads and Transportation.

"Mike's combination of business acumen and public service experience makes him ideally suited to lead Indiana's business development initiatives," said Governor-elect Braun. "His background in real estate, finance, and law will help drive economic growth across our state."

In Speedy’s role as Secretary of Business Affairs, he will be responsible for managing the state's regulatory framework and ensuring that businesses and industries operate safely, ethically, and efficiently.

"I look forward to working alongside Governor-elect Braun as Indiana's Secretary of Business Affairs,” said Speedy. “Having served in the Indiana General Assembly, I've seen firsthand how smart policy and reduced regulation can help businesses flourish. Drawing on my experience as both a legislator and business owner, we will streamline government processes, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and create an even more business-friendly environment in Indiana. Together, we’ll ensure Indiana remains one of the best places to do business in America.”

In the Indiana General Assembly, he served on key committees including Judiciary, Employment, Labor & Pensions, and Utilities, Energy & Telecommunications. Prior to serving at the statehouse, Speedy served on the Indianapolis City-County Council for seven years, including as Chairman of the Public Works Committee. He maintains his law license and Certified Commercial Investment Member designation.

Mike Speedy smaller Mike Speedy

Jennifer-Ruth Green as Indiana's Secretary of Public Safety. Green, a combat veteran and current Deputy Commander of the 11th Operations Group at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, brings extensive military and cyber security experience to the role.

Green's distinguished military career includes service as the commander of the 122nd Cyber Operations Flight in Fort Wayne and deployment to Baghdad with the Multi-National Security Transition Command-Iraq. A graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, she is an FAA-certified pilot and former Air Force Special Agent. Green also graduated from the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center with Distinguished Fitness Award honors and was selected as a Defense Ventures Cyber Fellow.

"Jennifer-Ruth Green's remarkable military background and cyber security expertise make her uniquely qualified to advise on homeland security and support law enforcement," said Governor-elect Braun. "Her combat experience and proven leadership will be invaluable in protecting Hoosier families and strengthening our emergency response capabilities."

The Secretary of Public Safety will be responsible for overseeing law enforcement, emergency preparedness and public safety policy development. As Secretary, Green will work with Governor-elect Braun to keep our communities safe by supporting law enforcement, combating drug trafficking and addressing illegal immigration.

"My commitment is to bring a strategic, comprehensive approach to public safety that protects Hoosier families and supports our first responders,” said Green. “Under Governor-elect Braun's leadership, we will ensure safety in our communities and focus on strengthening partnerships between law enforcement and communities, enhancing emergency preparedness, and ensuring our public safety personnel have the training and resources they need to serve effectively.”

Green founded Battle-Proven Leadership, providing executive training to organizations including the Indiana Attorney General's Office. She holds a master's degree in aeronautics from Liberty University and authored "People Don't Quit Their Jobs; They Quit Their Bosses."

Jennifer Ruth Green cropped Jennifer-Ruth Green

Dr. Gloria Sachdev as Indiana's Secretary of Health and Family Services. Dr. Sachdev currently serves as president and CEO of the Employers' Forum of Indiana, where she has led initiatives to improve healthcare transparency and affordability.

Under her leadership, Dr. Sachdev commissioned groundbreaking hospital cost transparency studies and developed Sage Transparency 2.0, a public dashboard for healthcare cost and quality data. Her advocacy has resulted in over two dozen state laws to improve healthcare affordability, including legislation to restrict facility fees for off-campus hospital services.

"Dr. Sachdev's proven track record of transforming healthcare delivery and costs makes her the ideal choice to lead Indiana's health initiatives," said Governor-elect Braun. "Her expertise in pharmacy, healthcare policy, and coalition-building will be invaluable as we work to improve health outcomes for Hoosiers."

Dr. Sachdev will be responsible for improving coordination across constituent-facing health and well-being services and addressing public health policy holistically in her role as Secretary of Health and Family Services. The Braun Administration plans to confront rising healthcare costs and limited access to care, particularly in rural areas, while protecting coverage for pre-existing conditions and reforming mental health treatment to reduce the burden on the criminal justice system.

“Drawing on my healthcare expertise, I am committed to improving health outcomes and access to care for all Hoosiers,” said Dr. Sachdev. “Under Governor-elect Braun's leadership, we will work tirelessly to ensure that every Indiana resident has the resources and support they need to live healthy, productive lives. I am grateful to Governor-elect Braun for entrusting me with this critical role.”

A Doctor of Pharmacy graduate from the University of Oklahoma, Dr. Sachdev has served as a clinical associate professor at Purdue's College of Pharmacy and the Indiana University School of Medicine. She founded courses in health policy and established a healthcare policy rotation at the Indiana Statehouse. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, the Wall Street Journal and other national media.

Dr. Gloria Sachdev

Captain Anthony Scott as Superintendent of the Indiana State Police. Scott brings nearly three decades of Indiana State Police experience to the job, currently serving as captain and area commander responsible for enforcement and investigative operations across multiple state police districts.

"Captain Scott's extensive experience at every level of the Indiana State Police uniquely qualifies him to lead our state's law enforcement agency," said Governor-elect Braun. "His proven track record of success, commitment to community partnerships, and focus on both public safety and operational efficiency align perfectly with our vision for a safer Indiana."

Scott, a 2019 graduate of the FBI National Academy, started serving the Indiana State Police in 1996 as a state trooper. He continued to rise up the ranks serving in various roles including detective, district investigative commander, lieutenant and captain.

Scott also has a demonstrated history of leading security operations for major events across Indiana and the Midwest. He previously served as the special events supervisor for presidential and dignitary visits, the Indianapolis 500, the Brickyard 400 and the Indianapolis Grand Prix. He also deployed to Cleveland in 2016 and Milwaukee in 2024 to assist with security for the 2016 and 2024 Republican National Conventions as a member of the command team.

"I have been honored to serve the Indiana State Police over the past three decades and am humbled to answer Governor-elect Braun’s request to lead these dedicated men and women in law enforcement," said Scott. "The Indiana State Police will continue to protect and serve all Hoosiers with a clearly defined mission focused on quality of life and crime prevention while promoting the values of courage, commitment, and character to encourage both personal and professional growth within our ranks."

A Greensburg resident, Scott holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Cumberland College, where he graduated with honors. He previously served as a board member on the Greensburg Community Schools Safety Committee and as a Greensburg Jr. High School Girls Basketball coach.

Capt. Anthony Scott

Suzanne Ryder Jaworowski as Indiana's Secretary of Energy and Natural Resources. Jaworowski brings extensive experience in energy policy as a leader in the private sector and the U.S. Department of Energy.

Jaworowski most recently served as Executive Director of Stakeholder Services at MISO Energy, overseeing stakeholder relations and client services. She previously served as Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor for Policy & Communications in the Department of Energy's Office of Nuclear Energy during the Trump administration, where she led strategic communications and policy initiatives.

"Suzie's deep understanding of energy policy and proven track record of stakeholder engagement makes her an ideal choice to lead Indiana's energy future," said Governor-elect Braun. "Her experience in both government and industry will be invaluable as we work to ensure reliable, affordable energy for Hoosiers."

As the Secretary of Energy, Jaworowski will provide the strong leadership needed to navigate Indiana’s energy challenges and improve accessibility. Consistent with Governor-elect Braun’s agenda, the Administration will focus on ensuring the state has enough affordable and reliable energy sources to sustain current residents and attract new development.

"I am honored to be named Indiana's Secretary of Energy by Governor-elect Braun,” said Jaworowski. “My vision is to ensure our state maintains a diverse energy portfolio that powers our economy, creates jobs, and supports our communities. Working alongside Governor-elect Braun, we will ensure that Indiana families and businesses have access to dependable, cost-effective energy solutions that drive our state forward."

Before her federal service, Jaworowski directed communications and government relations at Hallador Energy and founded Ryder Research Consulting, where she advised energy companies, utilities, and industry associations. She holds degrees from Radford University and Marymount University.

Suzanne Ryder Jaworowski