STATEHOUSE – State Representative Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) will co-chair the Indiana General Assembly’s defense caucus, which was recently reestablished to recognize and recommend opportunities to strengthen Indiana’s defense sector.
“This caucus will look at ways we can bolster our military bases, enhance their infrastructure and operations, and grow our defense industry,” Bartels said. “We also hope to address housing and other needs of Hoosier servicemembers to further support our military personnel.”
According to the Sagamore Institute, in 2023, Indiana had over 61,000 defense jobs, and the industry contributed $6.5 billion to the Indiana economy. Bartels said this caucus will help accelerate Indiana’s role in the defense industry and work to maintain our military base structure to support Indiana’s military readiness.
Bartels served 22 years in the military, retiring as a major, and is the chair of the House Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee.
“With his robust military background, Representative Bartels will help identify opportunities for Indiana to be an innovative leader in the defense sector, support our military, and contribute to state and national security,” said House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers).
Contact Bartels’ Statehouse office at in.gov/h74 or 317-232-9863.
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