State Rep. Bartels to chair Indiana Defense Task Force

STATEHOUSE – State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) was recently selected by Indiana Governor Mike Braun to serve as chair of the Indiana Defense Task Force. Bartels was appointed to the task force by House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers). Rep. Stephen Bartles Established through a 2019 law passed by the General Assembly, the Indiana Defense Task Force supports and promotes Indiana’s defense ecosystem and streamlines processes related to the retention of military installations and the continued development of installation communities. “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to further advance Indiana’s defense ecosystem,” said Bartels, a veteran and chair of the House Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee. “In Southern Indiana and across the state, our defense industry is growing. By strengthening our military installations and supporting local defense businesses, we are providing economic opportunities for our communities. This means creating high-wage careers and ensuring Indiana remains a leader in national security and innovation.” Bartels authored legislation this year that strengthens Indiana’s defense sector by ensuring tax dollars in fiscal years 2025-2027 appropriated for defense are coordinated and aligned with the Indiana Defense Task Force’s priorities. The bill also adds the adjutant general of the Indiana National Guard or their designee as a nonvoting member of the task force. To learn more about the Indiana Defense Task Force, visit https://iedc.in.gov/program/defense-task-force/overview .