Bill > SB0021

This bill prohibits the Indiana Department of Health from imposing additional requirements on religious organizations seeking funding for pregnancy and parenting services through community services block grant programs, beyond those specified in the federal Charitable Choice Act (45 CFR 1050). Specifically, the bill prevents the state department or its contractors from creating extra barriers for religious organizations to receive funding, such as mandating that services be provided by multiple individuals. The Charitable Choice Act generally protects religious organizations' rights to compete for government funding on equal terms with secular organizations, ensuring they are not discriminated against because of their religious character. By adding this provision to the Indiana Code, the bill aims to protect religious organizations' ability to provide pregnancy and parenting services without facing unnecessary bureaucratic obstacles when seeking government funding. The bill includes an emergency declaration, which means it would take effect immediately upon passage.

Health and Social Services

https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2025/bills/senate/21/details