Indiana News & Current Events | Public News Service

If Duke Energy has its way, some Hoosiers may soon face higher electric bills. (Adobe Stock)

Friday, September 20, 2024

Duke Energy's proposed rate hike, profits under fire

Duke Energy is facing criticism over its proposed rate hikes of up to 16%, while delaying the retirement of its coal-fired power plants in Indiana…

IU Health is expanding its suicide prevention efforts by training staff to better support individuals from different backgrounds. (Adobe stock)

Wednesday, September 18, 2024

Suicide rates rising among Indiana's diverse communities

By Reyna Revelle for WISH-TV.Broadcast version by Joe Ulery for Indiana News Service reporting for the WISH-TV-Free Press Indiana-Public News Service …

Maplewood Guest House in Muncie serves as a residential hub for third- and fourth-year medical students. (Ball State University)

Tuesday, September 17, 2024

Ball State, IU team up for medical student housing

By Katherine Hill for the Ball State Daily News .Broadcast version by Joe Ulery for Indiana News Service reporting for the Ball State Daily News-Free …

According to the research website Definitive Healthcare, consumers spent $603 billion on prescription drugs in 2021. (Adobe Stock)

IN residents await price reductions on costly prescriptions

Indiana ranks 20th among states for its prescription drug spending and especially for older adults, some help is on the way. The Inflation Reduction …

Hunger Action Month started in 2008 when Feeding America's food banks came together to encourage individuals to take action against hunger in their local communities. (Adobe stock)

Feeding Indiana’s Hungry calls for action as food insecurity worsens

Hoosiers are marking Hunger Action Month, a nationwide campaign led by the Feeding America Network, to raise awareness and fight hunger across the U.…

Lead contamination poses serious health risks, especially to children, and has been linked to<br />developmental issues and organ damage. (Adobe Stock)

Indianapolis neighborhood fears ongoing lead contamination Superfund site

By Enrique Saenz for Mirror Indy.Broadcast version by Joe Ulery for Indiana News Service reporting for the Mirror Indy-Free Press Indiana-Public News …

Unlike proposed constitutional amendments sent to Hoosiers in the past, a new succession amendment has not garnered any attention, let alone controversy. (Adobe stock)

Hoosiers face ballot question on governor succession process

By Marilyn Odendahl for The Indiana Citizen.Broadcast version by Joe Ulery for Indiana News Service reporting for the Indiana Citizen-Free Press India…

A new report by The Fair Housing Center of Central Indiana reveals Indiana's housing is aging, with 15% of homes and rental properties built before 1939. (Adobe stock)

Environmental racism threatens Hoosier communities

A new report found Hoosier homeowners and renters face significant challenges from environmental hazards and climate change. "The State of Fair …

Purdue University students Jason Packard and Rebecca Siener are trying to break the stigma around the Indiana Lifeline law and its effect on underage drinking.

Calls for broader legal safeguards under Indiana Lifeline Law

By Kody Fisher for WISH-TV.Broadcast version by Joe Ulery for Indiana News Service reporting for the WISH-TV-Free Press Indiana-Public News Service Co…

According to the Center for Women and Politics, registered women voters have traditionally outnumbered men by 10 million. In 2022, the number decreased to 7.4 million. (Adobe Stock)

IN women voters expected to outpace men in 2024 election

A Democratic woman of color vies against an embattled former Republican president in this year's historic Nov. 5 election and a new survey of 801 …

The 2024 Indiana Girl Report emphasized actionable steps for families and stakeholders to enhance the well-being of Hoosier girls. (Adobe stock)

Report: IN girls struggle with bullying, yet excel academically

A new report highlighted girls in Indiana face higher rates of bullying and sexual dating violence compared to boys. The 2024 Indiana Girl Report…

FAFSA forms last year were not launched until the end of December and were not fully available for all applicants until January. (Adobe Stock)

Hoosier families face financial aid setback with new FAFSA delay

Hoosier families with current and future college students should prepare for a delay in accessing financial aid. The Department of Education has …

Indiana has established the State Coroners Training Board which provides 40 hours of basic training for the position. (Adobe Stock)

The overlooked role of Indiana county coroners

By Nina Thompson for Mirror Indy.Broadcast version by Joe Ulery for Indiana News Service reporting for the Mirror Indy-Free Press Indiana-Public News …

Marion County is one of 92 counties in Indiana preparing for Election Day. (Adobe stock)

Indiana's low voter turnout spurs action: Hoosiers encouraged to vote

Indiana ranks 50th in the nation for voter turnout, just ahead of West Virginia, according to the Indiana Bar Foundation Civic Health Index. Kate …

The Democratic National Convention is being held this year at the United Center in Chicago, about a three-hour drive from Indianapolis. (A Gonzalez)

Gen Z mobilizes as Kamala Harris energizes Hoosier Democrats

The Democratic National Convention in Chicago is buzzing with energy and several Hoosiers are there on the ground, ushering in Vice President Kamala …

Recent reports show the economics of coal-fired power plants take a huge toll on ratepayer wallets and public health. (Adobe stock)

Study cites Indiana's costly reliance on coal plants

By Kari Lydersen for Energy News Network.Broadcast version by Joe Ulery for Indiana News Service reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network-Public…

The Indiana Department of Environmental Management considers an agricultural business a concentrated animal feeding operation if the farm meets or exceeds animal threshold numbers including 2,500 swine above 55 pounds, 55,000 turkeys or 700 mature dairy cows. (Adobe Stock)

IN farms have stricter rules for CAFO operations

A new study shows more than 1 million tons of animal waste is produced every year in the U.S. Consumers' desire for more animal protein and better …

On their way to Chicago, members of Indiana's Democratic delegation to the Democratic National Convention will be focused on leveraging momentum to strengthen the party's position in upcoming elections and build a robust foundation for future campaigns. (Adobe Stock)

Indiana's delegates ready for Harris and Walz

Indiana will be represented by about 90 delegates at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago next week. Michael Schmuhl, chairman of the …

On Tuesday, each candidate for Lieutenant Governor presented a distinct vision for Indiana, setting the stage for a heated race. (Adobe Stock)

IN Lt. Governor candidates present starkly different visions

In a debate in the race for Indiana's next Lieutenant Governor, the candidates clashed over the future of the state. Micah Beckwith, the Republican …

Indiana State Police investigators secretly bought THC products and found some of them were mislabeled. (Adobe stock)

Indiana retailers warned: THC products may violate state law

By Adam Pinsker for WISH-TV.Broadcast version by Joe Ulery for Indiana News Service reporting for the WISH-TV-Free Press Indiana-Public News Service C…

According to EPA< Indiana has more than 35,000 miles of rivers and streams, 100,000 acres of publicly owned lakes and reservoirs, and 50 miles of Great Lakes shoreline. (Adobe Stock)

IN summit seeks solutions to healthier waterways

The Annual Indiana Water Summit, coming up next week, will offer ideas on protecting the state's waterways. A 2022 report paints a troubling …

The American College of Ophthalmology says children can be born with cataracts which, if left untreated, can cause irreversible and abnormal connections between the brain and eye. (Adobe Stock)

IN kids have academic success with healthier eyes

Notebooks, writing tools and laptops are standard supplies on a parent's back-to-school shopping list. But one important appointment that can easily …

The proposed FEED Act has bipartisan support. (Adobe Stock)

Critics say IN-made dairy cow feed additive is 'overblown'

By Grace Hussain for Sentient.Broadcast version by Joe Ulery for Indiana News Service reporting for the Sentient/Public News Service Collaboration A …

According to the Indiana State Department of Agriculture, the Hoosier State ranks ninth as the largest farming state in the nation. (Adobe Stock)

IN farmers markets help food deserts, economy

This week is National Farmers Market Week, as fresh jams, jellies, fruits and vegetables draw thousands of people to more than 8,000 farmers markets …

Crews broke ground on the I-69 extension in 2008 in southwestern Indiana, but the dream of an interstate connecting Evansville to Indianapolis spanned decades. (Adobe Stock)

Historic connection: I-69 links Indianapolis and Evansville

Half a century after the goal was first conceived, Indianapolis and Evansville are now officially connected via an interstate highway. The I-69 and …

The National Institute of Health describes symptoms of Alzheimer's disease as changes in behavior and personality, a decline in decision-making and language skills, and difficulty recognizing family and friends. (Adobe Stock)

New tests bring hope to Indiana Alzheimer's patients, families

New research directed at earlier detection of Alzheimer's disease has produced a more promising method for diagnosis. It was unveiled last week at …

Indiana University hosts more than 4,000 students each year from at least 100 countries, including Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Taiwan, Turkey and Vietnam. (Adobe Stock)<br /><br />

IN universities see international student numbers rise

As people head back to college soon, professors may notice an increase in the number of international students. A new report finds these enrollment …

The Indiana Women's Prison was relocated to the west side of Indianapolis in 2009. (Adobe Stock)

City urged to take over neglected Indiana prison site

By Darian Benson for Mirror Indy.Broadcast version by Joe Ulery for Indiana News Service reporting for the Mirror Indy-Free Press Indiana-Public News …

According to an IU study, a lack of healthcare access includes health insurance, language barriers, and geographic or transportation-related barriers.

Remote doctor appointments remain popular for IN residents

Virtual healthcare gained steam during the pandemic, by allowing doctors to reduce in-person contact and still render services to patients. And …

Harris also travels to Houston, Texas, this week for a speech at the national convention of the American Federation of Teachers. (WH.gov)

Harris in Indianapolis: ‘We are not playing around’

Vice President Kamala Harris, now the presumptive Democratic nominee for president, delivered a powerful message in Indianapolis. Speaking at a Zeta …

The Indiana Youth Institute said enhancing educational opportunities means more resources for underfunded schools, to help bridge learning gaps for all Indiana students. (Adobe Stock)

IN students face stricter attendance rules, new reading requirements

As students in Indiana head back to school, they will encounter some stricter classroom rules, including new reading requirements and a tighter …

Over the next two decades, tens of billions of dollars will flow into state coffers across the country from the National Opioids Settlement. (Adobe stock)

Opioid settlement fund fuels anti-addiction battle in Indiana

Indiana is stepping up its fight against addiction with a boost from an opioid settlement fund. The money comes from a $54 billion 2021 Opioid …

According to the Indiana Department of Health in 2021, the average age of Hoosiers diagnosed with diabetes is 47. (Adobe Stock)

Multiyear IU project tackles diabetes at local level

A diagnosis of diabetes increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and even death. The School of Public Health at Indiana …

The Stronger Tomorrows initiative helps students receive accommodations from their school, like excused absences and connects them to young parent support groups. (Adobe stock)

Indiana initiative aims to lower infant mortality

By Haley Miller for Chalkbeat Indiana.Broadcast version by Joe Ulery for Indiana News Service reporting for the Chalkbeat Indiana-Free Press Indiana-P…

A study from Ball State University's Center for Business and Economic Research showed the need for better pay to attract and keep child care workers. (Adobe stock)

High childcare costs hinder women's workforce participation in Indiana

A new study from Ball State University's Center for Business and Economic Research revealed how child care availability and costs affect women's workf…

As universities begin implementing a new tenure law, debate continues over its potential effects on academic freedom and the preparation of future educators in Indiana. (Adobe stock)

New IN law requires five-year tenure reviews of professors

With just over a month before Indiana university students return, a new law affecting college professor tenures is in full effect. The law targets …

Along with Indiana, 20 other states have already adopted Buyer's Exclusive Agency agreements. (Adobe stock)

Indiana law introduces big changes to home buying

For years, Indiana home sellers have signed formal listing agreements with real estate brokers but now buyers also need written agreements before …

The World Health Organization says heat stress is the leading cause of weather-related deaths and can exacerbate underlying illnesses. (Adobe stock)

Tips for hot Hoosiers to stay safe in summer swelter

As summer temperatures rise, experts emphasize the need for Hoosiers to stay mindful of the heat to avoid serious health risks. Zac Schlader…

Food Bank of Northwest Indiana reminds the community food support is crucial year-round, not just during the holidays. (Adobe Stock)

Increasing demand devours IN food bank resources

Food Bank of Northwest Indiana is facing a surge in demand for food assistance, despite the end of the pandemic. The facility serves about 60,000 …

Congress allocated $1 billion for states to develop the 988 hotline amid growing concerns over worsening mental health. (Adobe stock)

Report: IN’s 988 success sets example but all states must improve crisis support

A new report gives Indiana high marks for its rollout of 988, a mental health crisis hotline, but also highlighted all states need to do more to …

The Indiana Department of Environmental Management says the state has a 50% recycling goal for municipal waste, and requires mandatory reporting of solid waste and recycling data to track progress. (Adobe Stock)

IN book offers recycling resources for event organizers

Summer in Indiana produces a variety of festivals, outdoor concerts, and athletic competitions. These attractions produce large crowds and hundreds …

Consumer fireworks should only be discharged on personal property or a location designated by the Indiana State Fire Marshal. (Adobe stock)

IN experts stress fireworks safety ahead of July 4th

As Hoosiers gear up for Independence Day, safety experts are stressing the importance of handling fireworks responsibly. Trevor Hash, division chief …

Some 17% of people in Indiana with HIV are unaware of their status, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (Adobe Stock)

IN center hosts sites for National HIV Testing Day

Today is National HIV Testing Day. First observed in the U.S. in 1995, anyone who is sexually active is urged to get tested to know their HIV status…

A group of pornography website operators is suing Indiana over a new law mandating stricter age verification for adult content sites. (Adobe stock)

New Indiana law: Protection for minors or privacy invasion?

A controversial new law is set to take effect next week, requiring Hoosiers to upload sensitive documents, including driver's licenses and Social …

There is a shortage of almost 140,000 affordable and available rental homes for extremely low-income Indiana residents, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition. (Adobe Stock)

Hoosiers push for statewide commission to tackle housing crisis

By Marilyn Odendahl for The Indiana Citizen.Broadcast version by Mark Richardson for Indiana News Service reporting for the Indiana Citizen-Free Press…

A report by The Nature Conservancy says if clean energy continues to be sited the way it always has been, the U.S. will need an area the size of Texas to meet its climate targets. (Adobe Stock)

Conservationists tout IN old mines, brownfields to develop renewable energy

Today is the summer solstice, the day of the year with the most sunshine, and Indiana conservationists said they have a plan to make the best use of …

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources says ground within 100 feet of a burial ground may not be disturbed for erecting, altering or repairing any structure that would impact the location without approval from the Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology. (Adobe Stock)

Juneteenth honors freedom amid possible IN graveyard extinction

Today is Juneteenth, the federal holiday recognizing this date in 1865 when slaves in Texas were told they were free, more than two years after the …

According to Indiana Career Explorer, 1,300 job openings as chefs and head cooks are projected through 2030. (Adobe Stock)

Culinary camp teaches IN teens cooking, business skills

Kids' summer camp means horseback riding, hiking and scavenger hunts. But one Indianapolis chef is using the school break to teach youths cooking and …

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