58:40 was the vote. Unfortunately, an amended version of the bill passed that does not regulate Class 1 wetlands and will reduce Class 2 wetlands.  It’s estimated that 60% of the remaining wetlands will be at risk.  It is now back to the Senate where it might become worse, or back to the original version.

— Leo

Message from Hoosier Environmental Council:

Today the anti-wetlands bill, SB 389, cleared another hurdle on the path to becoming law when the Indiana House passed the bill 58 to 40.

The House version eliminates protection for Class I wetlands, significantly reduces protection for Class II wetlands, and allows dredge and fill in ephemeral streams. This could lead to a substantial loss of wetlands since IDEM estimates that Class I and Class II wetlands make up 58% and 41% respectively of Indiana’s remaining wetlands.

“If SB 389 becomes law, the loss of wetlands could lead to high costs in increased flooding, lost groundwater recharge, lost water purification, and lost wildlife habitat. More generally, SB 389 sends the wrong signal to businesses and talent that make decisions in part on a state’s environmental quality and reputation. We urge House and Senate leadership to heed the call of over 80 well-respected environmental, conservation, civic, sportsmen's, faith, lake, river, and professional organizations that are opposed to SB 389, an unprecedented degree of unity, and urge the Senate and House sponsors to convert this bill to a Wetlands Task Force in conference committee,” said Dr. Indra Frank, Director of Environmental Health and Water Policy for the Hoosier Environmental Council.

*Thank you so much for all of your calls and emails: the vote was narrower than it could have been, and your efforts were critical.**

Please stay tuned for more updates, please continue to share this petition.