New Indiana Laws Take Effect July 1: What Hoosiers Need to Know

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INDIANAPOLIS — Beginning July 1, a wide range of new Indiana laws approved by the General Assembly and signed by Governor Mike Braun will take effect, impacting everything from immigration enforcement and school cellphone policies to county fairs, social media use, and homelessness.

The 2026 session of the Indiana General Assembly was less busy in terms of volume but relatively significant in terms of policy impact.

Indiana meets annually, with odd-numbered years being “long sessions” devoted to writing the two-year state budget and even-numbered years being shorter, non-budget sessions.

The 2026 session was an abbreviated “short session” that concluded in late February, so lawmakers had less time and ultimately sent only about 100 bills to Governor Braun—considerably fewer than are typically enacted during long budget years.

However, the bills that did pass included several high-profile and consequential policy changes, including:

* tighter restrictions on welfare eligibility and Medicaid administration;

* a statewide “bell-to-bell” school cellphone ban;

* new restrictions on social media access for minors;

* expanded immigration enforcement measures;

* new public camping restrictions addressing homelessness; and

* additional election, public safety, and regulatory reforms.

Compared with a typical July 1 effective date following a long budget session, this year’s changes probably affected fewer areas of state government overall because there was no new biennial budget, major tax overhaul, or sweeping education finance package. But the measures that did pass touched on several nationally debated issues—immigration, social media, homelessness, and school discipline—making the session politically significant despite its smaller size.

The 2026 Indiana General Assembly may not have produced the sheer volume of legislation seen during major budget years, but lawmakers still delivered a series of headline-grabbing reforms likely to be felt in classrooms, local governments, and households across Indiana for years to come.

With dozens of new laws becoming effective, Hoosiers across the state should be aware of changes that could affect their daily lives.

Stronger Immigration Enforcement

One of the most closely watched measures taking effect is Senate Enrolled Act 76, which requires local governments and law enforcement agencies to cooperate with federal immigration authorities regarding immigration detainer requests.

The law also strengthens restrictions against knowingly employing individuals who are not legally authorized to work in the United States and grants the Indiana Attorney General additional enforcement authority.

Supporters argue the measure reinforces the rule of law and enhances public safety, while critics have raised concerns about local costs and potential legal challenges.

“Bell-to-Bell” Cellphone Ban in Schools

Indiana students will face stricter limits on personal electronic devices under Senate Enrolled Act 78.

Beginning with the upcoming school year, public and charter schools must prohibit student access to personal cellphones, smartwatches, tablets, and similar devices during the entire school day unless an exception applies for medical needs, emergencies, or limited educational purposes.

State leaders say the law is intended to reduce distractions, improve academic performance, and address concerns about student mental health.

Public Camping Restrictions

Senate Enrolled Act 285 establishes new restrictions on camping or sleeping on unauthorized public property.

Individuals found camping on public land without authorization may face misdemeanor charges after receiving warnings and being offered information regarding available shelter or services. The law includes exemptions in certain circumstances, including when shelter space is unavailable.

Supporters say the law will encourage individuals experiencing homelessness to seek assistance while improving public safety. Opponents contend it criminalizes homelessness without sufficiently expanding housing options.

Social Media Protections for Minors

House Enrolled Act 1408 creates new protections aimed at children and teenagers using social media platforms.

The law requires parental consent for minors to create certain social media accounts and imposes new responsibilities on social media companies regarding parental oversight and potentially harmful platform features.

The legislation reflects growing concern nationwide about the effects of social media on youth mental health.

Increased Child Fatality Oversight

House Enrolled Act 1257 requires greater transparency and reporting concerning child fatalities investigated by the Indiana Department of Child Services.

Lawmakers said the measure was designed to improve oversight and identify opportunities to better protect vulnerable children.

Doxing Now Specifically Criminalized

Under Senate Enrolled Act 140, individuals who publish another person’s personal information online with the intent to facilitate harassment, threats, or criminal acts may face criminal penalties.

Penalties may be enhanced when the victim is a public official or government employee.

Masks Used During Crimes May Increase Sentences

Senate Enrolled Act 160 makes wearing a mask or face covering while committing a criminal offense an aggravating factor during sentencing, potentially resulting in harsher punishment upon conviction.

Sweepstakes Gaming Crackdown

House Enrolled Act 1052 prohibits many online sweepstakes-style games that simulate casino gambling. Operators found violating the law could face civil penalties of up to $100,000.

Alcohol Sales at County Fairs Expanded

County fairs across Indiana may now choose to permit the sale of beer, wine, and liquor if they obtain the necessary permits.

Supporters believe the change could help county fairs generate additional revenue while maintaining family-friendly environments.

Bottom Line

July 1 traditionally marks the date when many new Indiana laws take effect, and this year is no exception.

Hoosiers are encouraged to review legislation that may affect their families, businesses, schools, and communities.

A complete list of enacted legislation is available through the Indiana General Assembly.

The new laws discussed above are based on legislation approved during the 2026 session of the Indiana General Assembly and reporting on measures taking effect July 1.

HE staff can be reached at info.hoosierenquirerstaff@gmail.com