As I write, lawmakers are working long hours to wrap up conference committee work by the end of February when they are scheduled to adjourn sine die. Not only did they take the first week or two to debate proposed changes to the state’s congressional district borders, but they then needed to make time to create a Northwest Indiana Sports Authority to bolster the state’s bid to lure the Chicago Bears across the border, leaving even less time in an already short session for normal legislative work.
Your government relations team has been working around the clock to keep up with the frenetic pace of the session, advocating for our members and the communities you serve. Read about some of the work they’ve been doing in their recap of this year’s annual Legislative Briefing and Reception as well as the FLD Day at the Statehouse, then look for a full session recap in the May/June issue.
Looking to the future, I’m excited to see all of you at Mega Conference May 19-21! Education will be at the Indiana Convention Center as always, and our host hotel this year is the Westin. Check out this year’s keynote speakers, then be sure to book your room by April 27 when our room block closes. Look for more communication about a special reception at this year’s Mega honoring Chris Bennett as she retires after 35 years of distinguished service to the Association.
Your IBA staff and board are also putting the finishing touches on our next three-year strategic plan. We have some incredible growth opportunities coming, not lest of which is our Financial Services Academy apprenticeship program that’s already growing to the point we will have six full-time staffers dedicated to it by mid-year. I can’t wait to share everything with you in a future issue!
