Indiana Senate Passes Synthetic Urine Ban On Unanimous Vote

Lawmakers gathered at the Capitol on January 5th to discuss 2026 legislative priorities. Following a contentious December to address redistricting, the 2026 session is expected to be shorter.

Lawmakers heard testimony on Wednesday about the importance of needle exchange programs, which give people access to clean syringes for drug use. Data show those programs have helped slow the spread of disease and protect law enforcement, but not everyone is in favor of an extension.

The deadline for states to decide whether to participate in SUNBucks — a federal program that helps provide funds during the summer — is approaching, after Indiana opted out of the program last year.