SOUTH BEND—State Senator David Niezgodski (D-South Bend) released the following statement following his first meeting as a voting member of the State Budget Committee meeting.   

“I am grateful to be on this committee as a voting member, and I am eager to collaborate on policy to improve our state and St. Joseph County. Yesterday’s discussions have underscored the importance of transparency and accountability to the Indiana General Assembly and the Hoosier taxpayers.  

“We had a vigorous discussion on the transparency of the IEDC and Indiana Gaming Commission and the nearly $1 billion underfunding of Medicaid, and what it truly comes down to is doing what’s best for our constituents and the State of Indiana. My dedication is to Indiana and my district and to represent what will benefit them the most. I make a concerted effort to comprehend each policy from various viewpoints, ensuring that I approach decision-making with a well-informed perspective.   

“We need to hold all state agencies accountable for their decisions, especially when it comes down to historic multi-million investments in potential projects for our state. It is important we understand where the funds are going but we must also be vigorous in our efforts to compete for Indiana to become the home of these generational billion-dollar economic development projects. The $3.5-billion GM/Samsung EV Battery Plant in St. Joseph County is one very prime example. 

“As these conversations continue, I remain committed to working alongside members of the committee and other stakeholders to address the challenges and opportunities facing our state.”