House Passes Bill Safeguard Prime Hoosier Farmland While Encouraging Local Economic Growth

The bill also includes language regarding data centers.

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INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana House of Representatives recently passed legislation to preserve prime farmland while encouraging local economic development. 

Forest and woodland occupy more than 80 percent of Hoosier land and agriculture contributes over $35 billion to Indiana's economy. 

Under House Bill 1333, authored by Kendell Culp (R-Rensselaer), these lands would be protected from development by encouraging the use and rehabilitation of brownfield sites. Brownfield properties refer to previously developed land that is underused, abandoned, or contaminated, often due to industrial or commercial activities. 

"My goal with this legislation has always been to grow our local communities while protecting our most valuable asset, prime farmland. Improvements are still needed on this bill," Culp said.  "If stronger local control is not added back into the bill, I will not allow it to advance when it returns to the House. I will continue to advocate on behalf of Hoosier farmers and rural residents, working to better House District 16."

In addition to protecting prime Hoosier farmland, Culp's legislation would also prioritize resident voices in local public meetings, which he said provide an important space for residents to express concerns and ask questions about proposed development. House Bill 1333 would give local officials additional tools to prioritize residents when testifying at public meetings rather than special interest groups.

The legislation would also ensure that if a local community chose to approve a data center, the local community would receive at least one percent of sales tax revenue, ensuring more local benefit from these projects.

House Bill 1333 now heads to the Senate for consideration. To learn more and follow session, visit iga.in.gov.