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January jobs report: Unemployment rate falls to 4%, wages rise more than forecast; Trump signs order imposing sanctions on International Criminal Court over investigations of Israel; Ten Commandments in public schools debate reaches South Dakota; Virginia ranks among worst states for wage theft; Mexican long-nosed bat makes appearance in Arizona.

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Attorney General Pam Bondi strikes a Trump tone at the Justice Department, federal workers get more time to consider buyouts, and an unclassified email request from the White House worries CIA vets.

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During Black History Month, a new book shares how a unique partnership built 5,000 schools for Black students, anti-hunger advocates say ag communities would benefit from an expanded SNAP program, and Americans have $90 billion in unpaid medical bills.

Bill aims to broaden Indiana Lifeline Law

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Wednesday, January 22, 2025   

Indiana lawmakers are moving forward with plans to expand the state's Lifeline Law, which protects those seeking emergency help in alcohol-related crises.

A Senate committee unanimously approved a bill to extend immunity to individuals in distress due to excessive drinking, aiming to address hesitation among young people to call for help.

Rebecca Siner, student body vice president at Purdue University, said broader protections encourage people to seek assistance in dangerous situations without fearing legal repercussions.

"The Indiana Lifeline Law provides amnesty from arrest or prosecution to those seeking medical attention for underage drinking," Siner explained. "The parties protected under this law are the caller and those who assist the caller, staying on scene and remaining compliant. The person in need of medical attention is not protected to this day."

Critics, however, raised concerns expanding immunity might unintentionally encourage reckless behavior, such as excessive drinking, by reducing perceived consequences. Some also questioned whether the law's broader scope could create enforcement challenges or overwhelm emergency services with noncritical calls.

Jason Packard, student body president at Purdue, told lawmakers he supports the amendment to broaden protections. He said it will be imperative to educate the community about the changes to drive better outcomes.

"With this change, it gives them protection and it makes educating students on this topic much easier," Packard contended. "And it's a much more convincing message for them to remember when they're in that scary situation to take decisive action and call 911 to save a life."

The Lifeline Law was first enacted in 2012 and revised in 2014, giving immunity to minors reporting emergencies. If the latest amendment passes, it adds another layer of protection for Hoosiers while fueling debate over how best to balance safety and accountability.


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