The Indiana House has passed a bill authored by Munster Representative Mara Candelaria Reardon she says will help local governments run more effectively and efficiently.
Candelaria-Reardon says the measure addresses issues brought forth the the Indiana League of Municipal Clerk Treasurers. House Bill 1145 passed through the House 68-26 and will now advance to the Senate for further consideration.
 “This proposal allows a political subdivision to transfer any unused, unencumbered funds from any fiscal year to the rainy day fund,” said Candelaria Reardon. “The amount transferred must be authorized by resolution or ordinance, provided the amount is not more than 10% of the political subdivision’s total annual budget. “The bill also addresses the publication requirements of towns to line them up with the publication requirements of cities,” she continued. “Additionally, a political subdivision could charge a maximum convenience fee of $3 for the use of credit cards to pay for utilities, parks and recreation classes and programs.”
Candelaria Reardon also stated that the convenience fee is necessary because the local governments must pay for a secure network and equipment that needs to be replaced every two to three years. “This legislation is not a mandate,” she added. “We’re simply providing cities with a tool to operate more efficiently. Taxpayers do not have to use their bank cards, but can always decline the fee by paying with a check or cash.
“Currently, all taxpayers are paying the cost whether they use bank cards or not. This bill provides a fair and equitable way for local governments to charge only those who enjoy the convenience of paying with a bank card, and not all taxpayers,” she concluded. For more information go to indianahousedemocrats.org. You also can contact Candelaria Reardon at her Statehouse office at 200 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46204. Her office can be contacted toll free at 1-800-382-9842, or via email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
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