LUM Advocates for Families and Housing Solutions
Supporting Policies That Strengthen Economic Stability and Opposing Criminalization of Homelessness & Predatory Loans
LUM is dedicated to advocating for policies that support families, promote economic stability, and address homelessness with compassion. LUM supports legislation that strengthens Hoosier families and opposes measures that marginalize vulnerable populations.
LUM Supports
Senate Bill 497– Tax credit for newborn children
LUM supports Senate Bill 497, which provides a refundable $500 tax credit per newborn child, as it aligns with LUM’s mission to strengthen families and promote financial stability. This credit offers critical relief to parents during a child’s costly first year, helping cover essential expenses such as diapers, medical care, and infant supplies. By easing financial burdens, particularly for low- and middle-income households, this legislation fosters stronger, more resilient communities. LUM urges lawmakers to support SB 497 to provide much-needed assistance to families. Authored by: Sen. Greg Walker, Sen. Stacey Donato. Co-Authored by: Sen. Travis Holdman, Sen. Tyler Johnson, Sen. Linda Rogers, Sen. Fady Qaddoura, Sen. Rick Niemeyer, Sen. David Niezgodski, Sen. Andrea Hunley, Sen. Lonnie Randolph.
Senate Bill 115 – Paid family and medical leave program
LUM supports Senate Bill 115, which establishes a paid family and medical leave program to ensure workers can care for newborns, ill family members, or their own health without financial hardship. This legislation strengthens families, promotes workforce stability, and supports economic security. LUM urges lawmakers to support SB 115 to create a healthier, more compassionate Indiana. Authored by: Sen. Rodney Pol, Sen. Greg Walker.
Senate Bill 122 – Non-Profit Loan Centers for State Employees
LUM supports SB 122, a bill aimed at reducing reliance on predatory lenders. Patti O’Callaghan, the LUM volunteer legislative liaison, recently testified before the Indiana Senate in support of this measure. Each year, LUM’s financial assistance program helps 1,000+ households, distributing over $100,000 to those in need. Our tax assistance program has also secured millions in refunds for working Hoosiers. Despite their efforts, many still struggle to make ends meet and turn to high-interest payday loans. SB 122 would give state employees access to fair, nonprofit loan options, helping protect their wages. LUM urges lawmakers to pass SB 122 to support Indiana’s working families. Authored by: Sen. Spencer Deery, Sen. Eric Bassler, Sen. Greg Walker. Co-Authored by: Sen. J.D. Ford, Sen. Andrea Hunley, Sen. Lonnie Randolph.
LUM Opposes
House Bill 1662 – State and local policies on homelessness
LUM strongly opposes House Bill 1662, which would criminalize homelessness by making “street camping” a misdemeanor. Punishing individuals without shelter does not address root causes and creates further barriers to employment and housing. Additionally, restricting state funds for permanent housing would exacerbate homelessness. Stable housing is a proven, cost-effective solution that improves public health and safety. LUM urges lawmakers to reject HB 1662 and instead invest in real solutions, including affordable housing, mental health services, and substance abuse treatment. Authored by: Rep. Michelle Davis. Quick action form – click HERE.
House Bill 1174 – Charges for supervised loans
LUM strongly opposes HB 1174, which would increase costs for borrowers by allowing lenders to charge additional monthly service fees on small loans under the Uniform Consumer Credit Code (UCCC). This bill would further exploit financially vulnerable Hoosiers by adding unnecessary fees on loans under $5,000, in addition to already high interest rates—potentially trapping low-income families in cycles of debt. Instead of expanding predatory lending, Indiana should invest in fair, nonprofit loan alternatives that promote economic security. LUM urges lawmakers to reject HB 1174 and prioritize consumer protections for working families. Author: Rep. Rep. Jake Teshka. Co-Authors: Rep. Chris Judy, Rep. Robert Heaton. Take Quick Action Here to stop it!
Call to Action
LUM encourages you to contact your legislators and the bill authors to voice your support for Senate Bill 497 and Senate Bill 115, and opposition to House Bill 1662. Let’s work together to advocate for compassionate, effective solutions that make a real difference. Follow this link to find out: http://iga.in.gov/legislative/find-legislators/. Every phone call and email makes a difference.
A strong, public voice for Hoosier families and children in need
FIND YOUR Your State Legislators
Follow this link to find out: http://iga.in.gov/legislative/find-legislators/. Every phone call and email makes a difference as we work to protect the interests of Hoosier Families!
If you wish to make a donation to the LUM Social Justice Ministry, click HERE.