By Andi Anderson
While Congress takes its August recess, most state legislatures across the country have already adjourned for the year. Only eight states — California, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin — remain in session, with Texas holding a special session. Lawmakers in other states have returned to their districts and will not revisit legislation until 2025 unless special sessions are called.
Despite shorter sessions, states advanced a significant number of bills in 2025. More than 135,500 bills were introduced, representing a 55 percent increase from 2024. Of those, nearly 29,000 were signed into law, compared with just over 10,000 bills introduced in the U.S. Congress this year.
The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) has been active in state capitals, engaging with legislators to shape policies that support industry growth while pushing back against measures that could negatively affect the equipment sector. These efforts contributed to the passage of several key state-level laws.
In Indiana, property tax reform was a top priority. Governor Braun signed SEA 1 into law, introducing important updates. The legislation raises the minimum threshold for filing business property taxes from $80,000 to $2 million, phased in over time.
It also removes the 30 percent floor on Business Personal Property depreciation for newly purchased property. Together, these provisions will help reduce the tax burden on businesses with equipment and property holdings.
Other states also focused on agricultural and environmental concerns, with new policies addressing PFAS contamination, dairy industry loan support, and equipment financing. These actions highlight how states are taking the lead on pressing issues affecting agriculture, business, and communities while Congress remains limited in its progress.
Photo Credit: pexels-karolina-grabowska
Categories: Indiana, Government & Policy