07/02/2026
New Indiana Laws Take Effect July 1!
Over 160 new laws are officially going into effect across the state this week. From classrooms to local communities, here are the biggest changes Hoosiers need to know:
School Cellphone Ban: A new "bell-to-bell" ban means students cannot use cellphones, tablets, or smartwatches during instructional time unless allowed by a teacher.
Public Camping Ban: It is now a misdemeanor to camp or sleep on unauthorized public property, carrying a penalty of up to 60 days in jail.
Dogs in Hot Cars: Good Samaritans are now protected from civil liability if they break into a hot vehicle to save an animal, as long as they call 911 first.
Strict Doxing Laws: Posting someone's personal info online with the intent to cause harm or harassment is now classified as a criminal intimidation offense.
Masks and Crime: Committing a crime while wearing a mask or hood to hide your identity will now lead to harsher criminal sentencing aggravators.
Which of these changes do you think will impact your community the most?