summary
Introduced
01/05/2026
01/05/2026
In Committee
01/05/2026
01/05/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Designated public forums. Defines a "designated public forum". Provides that the state or a political subdivision may impose time, place, and manner restrictions on speech in a designated public forum, provided that such restrictions are: (1) justified by a compelling interest of the state or political subdivision; (2) narrowly tailored; (3) administered using the least restrictive means available; and (4) viewpoint neutral. Provides that the state or a political subdivision may not exclude speech: (1) made by a religious or political group, if the speech is consistent with the designated public forum's purpose; or (2) solely because it expresses a religious or political viewpoint.
AI Summary
This bill establishes rules for "designated public forums," which are defined as state or locally owned properties intentionally opened for specific groups or discussions, including civic centers and leased facilities. The bill allows government entities to place time, place, and manner restrictions on speech within these forums, but only if these restrictions are for a significant government reason, precisely targeted, use the least restrictive methods, and do not favor or disfavor any particular viewpoint. Crucially, the bill prohibits excluding speech from religious or political groups if it aligns with the forum's purpose, or solely because it expresses a religious or political viewpoint, deeming such exclusions as prohibited viewpoint discrimination.
Committee Categories
Government Affairs
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
First reading: referred to Committee on Local Government (on 01/05/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2026/bills/house/1173/details |
| Fiscal Note #1: Introduced | https://iga.in.gov/pdf-documents/124/2026/house/bills/HB1173/fiscal-notes/HB1173.01.INTR.FN001.pdf |
| BillText | https://iga.in.gov/pdf-documents/124/2026/house/bills/HB1173/HB1173.01.INTR.pdf |
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