Indiana Lawmakers Review State Boards and Commissions for Reform

By Andi Anderson

Indiana lawmakers are closely examining the more than 200 state boards and commissions that exist across government, as part of an effort to improve accountability and reduce costs. The number of panels has doubled over the past two decades, prompting questions about efficiency and taxpayer burden.

According to the Indiana State Budget Agency, the “low-ball, conservative” estimate of travel and per-diem costs for board members last year totaled about $700,000. Lawmakers say that figure likely falls short, since it does not account for other expenses connected to board operations.

Senator Chris Garten of Charlestown emphasized the lack of transparency in the system. He explained that many boards operate with limited financial visibility. “One of the first things that came out is they have almost no visibility on expenses within some of these boards and commissions,” Garten said. “Can’t track ‘em, can’t see ‘em.”

To gain a broader perspective, the Legislative Services Agency was asked to analyze the true cost of these panels. At the same time, state officials are looking at reforms in other states for guidance.

Adam Battalio, senior policy advisor for the Braun administration, has studied how other states have trimmed their systems. He pointed to Iowa as a model, where officials recently consolidated or eliminated 80 out of 259 boards and commissions — a reduction of about 30 percent.

For Indiana, the review represents a chance to simplify government, cut unnecessary spending, and ensure boards serve meaningful purposes. The study is still underway, but lawmakers are signaling that changes are likely as they seek to balance oversight, efficiency, and taxpayer accountability.

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