Bill Co-Authored, Sponsored by Patterson Ceremonially Signed by Gov. Braun

The bills improve health care access, and support first responders.

Lindsay Patterson. Photo provided.

INDIANAPOLIS - Governor Mike Braun recently ceremonially signed into law legislation co-sponsored by State Rep. Lindsay Patterson (R-Brookville) to improve health care access and support public safety officers across Indiana.

Patterson sponsored Senate Enrolled Act 180, which updates licensing and training requirements for several health care professions while improving access to medical benefits for police officers and firefighters injured in the line of duty.

The new law updates educational standards and regulations for home health aides, dental hygienists and respiratory care practitioners to better reflect current workforce needs. It also streamlines the process for first responders to receive medical benefits for duty-related injuries, helping ensure they can access care without unnecessary delays.

She also supported SEA 262, which enhances Indiana’s prescription drug monitoring program, INSPECT, by clarifying reporting requirements and reducing administrative burdens for providers. The law allows limited data sharing with state agencies to support overdose prevention efforts and improve coordination in addressing substance use challenges while remaining compliant with federal law.

"Improving access to care and reducing barriers for both providers and first responders is critical to keeping our communities safe and healthy," Patterson said. "These new laws help strengthen our health care workforce while making sure the men and women who protect our communities are supported."

To learn more about these laws and others signed by the governor, click here.