The Indiana Chamber continues to push for state wide changes to improve the standard of living in the state by 2025.

A bill signed into law by Gov. Eric Holcomb this month will allow the Indiana Department of Environmental Management to raise permit fees after an extensive rulemaking process.

A survey released Monday shows a majority of Indiana employers think substance misuse is a problem in the community, but only a few think its an issue in their own companies.

The new initiative aims to teach Indiana employers how to help workers who may struggle with addiction. The effort is a partnership between the state, the Indiana Chamber and the Wellness Council.

Indiana has one of the highest smoking rates in the country, and some of the lowest cigarette taxes.

Indiana Chamber President and CEO Kevin Brinegar says the number of firms that can’t fill jobs has been on the rise the past five years.

The coalition will also push – as it has in the past – to increase the legal smoking age from 18 to 21.

It’s the first time the influential business organization hasn’t backed a Senate candidate since its endorsements began.

The Achieve Your Degree program connects Hoosiers with education programs, and financial aid options, to build their career credentials.

The bill would increase the age for buying cigarettes to 21 and add a $1.50 tax per pack of cigarettes.