WFYI News Now

A year and a half after splitting from IU, Purdue University is opening it's own library in Indianapolis. Road salt can reduce car accidents on icy winter days. But it often doesn't stay on the road — and that runoff can harm aquatic life in rivers and lakes as well as damage plants and soil. Indiana University has been celebrating a historic season including its first Big Ten Championship since 1967. Floyd County, Indiana, residents will select a new county judge next year. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Marion County residents can drop off Christmas trees for disposal at Indianapolis locations through the end of January. Candidates are lining up to run for the vacant Senate seat in District 31. Indiana is at the center of a data center boom, with billions of dollars in projects underway. For families separated by incarceration, the holidays can be especially hard. IU football coach Curt Cignetti and Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer share a similar background. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

An IU researcher from China is in jail after being charged last week with two counts of smuggling and one count of making false statements to law enforcement. Flu cases are up around the country … and in Indiana, and Marion County hospitals say they must now limit visitors. Starting January first, more than half a million low-income Hoosiers won't be able to use their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, benefits on sugary drinks or candy. Artificial intelligence-powered toys, such as teddy bears and robots that talk to children, are arriving on store shelves. Quarterback Fernando Mendoza is breaking more new ground for IU football, this time it's inspiring the name of a thoroughbred racehorse. AAA projects over 122 million people, 2.9 million of them Hoosiers, will be traveling for the holidays this year. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Hoosiers are facing foreclosures at increasing rates. A central Indiana youth advocacy group wants the state to invest in more affordable housing for Hoosier families. A state-mandated taskforce led by Mayor Joe Hogsett voted this week to recommend a new oversight body for city charter schools and the Indianapolis Public Schools district. Winters in Indiana — and across the country — are heating up faster than other seasons. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Decatur Township on the southwest side of Marion County has become the newest fight over a data center in Indiana. Six former men's basketball players at IU Indianapolis are suing the university, alleging physical and emotional abuse by fired coach Paul Corsaro. Candidates for the 2026 Indiana Secretary of State race are already pooling campaign donations. An Indiana group wants the state to take a closer look at preemption laws. Indiana's home energy rebate program is off to a slow start. Northwest Indiana leaders are welcoming the Chicago Bears' announcement that they're willing to look at the Region for a new stadium site. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

A state-mandated task force led by Mayor Joe Hogsett has recommended a major shakeup for Indianapolis schools. Lauren Roberts is seeking damages from the City of Indianapolis after she was forcibly removed from a City-County Council meeting earlier this year. Indiana University is expanding its emergency opioid response. After Indiana cut preschool scholarships, communities are looking for ways to fill the gap. Parkview Health and the University of Notre Dame are partnering together, with help from a development fund, to create an AI-enabled solution to improve health care in rural communities. An Indianapolis tutoring program to address K through third-grade literacy gaps at public schools says it has improved reading for over 750 at-risk students. If you shop for holiday décor this year, experts say to expect higher prices and less inventory. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Marion County Sheriff Kerry Forestal will run for the state Senate District 31 seat in central Indiana. The Indianapolis Local Education Alliance votes Wednesday on a plan to reshape how district and charter schools are governed. Indianapolis Public Schools is backing down in a legal fight with the state's attorney general over immigration. More than seven million borrowers will need to change repayment plans for federal student loans. An Indianapolis police task force released a report that breaks down efforts to get illegal guns and drugs off city streets. The Indiana Department of Health has launched a new drug overdose dashboard that expands access to key information. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

The results of a violent crime initiative in Indianapolis can be seen in this year's data report from the city's police department. Indiana has increased cash assistance for low-income families under recent welfare reforms. Indiana health officials are extending open enrollment for two major Medicaid programs through December 24. Incoming classes to Purdue University will now have to learn about AI in order to graduate. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

The rift among Republican lawmakers deepens as Indiana State Senator Liz Brown steps back from a leadership position. Southern Indiana lawmakers were divided on a bill to redraw U.S. congressional lines. Farmers are having a tough year. Amid tariffs and rising costs, Indiana producers say aid from the Trump Administration could hold them over until planting season. The Indiana education department recently announced an infusion of $75 million to support students. Indiana's first bobcat season in decades is already over, but the work to gather data on bobcats in the state has just started. The Indianapolis Colts lost to the Seattle Seahawks 16 to 18 yesterday. Fernando Mendoza, the enthusiastic quarterback of number one Indiana, won the Heisman Trophy on Saturday night. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Indiana lawmakers voted 19 to 31 against the congressional redistricting called for by President Donald Trump in his attempt to help Republicans win the 2026 midterm elections. President Donald Trump is lashing out at Indiana's top state senator after legislation to redraw congressional districts failed Thursday in the General Assembly. House Republicans and the Trump administration have proposed significant cuts to the Environmental Protection Agency next fiscal year. Indiana's infant mortality rate was at a historic low last year according to the Indiana Department of Health. Severe winter weather is headed to central Indiana. The Allen County Public Library is hosting the monks of the Labrang Tashi Kyil monastery in India this week as part of the monks' tour for world peace. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Federal vaccine advisers voted last week to scale back their guidance on hepatitis B shots for newborns. The Indiana Senate on Wednesday rejected a handful of amendments to a redistricting bill designed to benefit Republicans. Indiana Republicans are considering whether to approve a controversial new congressional map that favors their party. State senators are advancing a new measure to increase immigration enforcement. Dozens of immigrants were denied becoming U.S. citizens at a naturalization ceremony Tuesday at Union Station in Indianapolis. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

About 300 Indiana National Guard troops arrived in Washington, D.C., Saturday. Indiana schools already ban cell phones during instructional time, but a new proposal would lock them away for the entire day. Republicans in the Indiana Senate continue to move forward with a bill aimed at flipping the state's two Democratic congressional seats. Indiana's only predominantly Black institution will pause operations by the end of the year. More than 20 years of Indianapolis art history is presented through a new digital project from the Indianapolis Public Library. Indianapolis City-County Council President Vop Osili announced Tuesday he will not run for president again, fueling speculation that he might run for mayor of the city in 2027. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Senate Republicans Monday night passed a bill out of committee that aims to redraw Indiana's congressional districts to favor their party. Several hundred people protested the controversial congressional redistricting plan at the Indiana Statehouse Monday. Indiana schools would need to notify parents if their child was a victim of bullying, or expressing suicidal thoughts, under a bill one House lawmaker plans to reintroduce during the legislative session. Jessica Adams, a lecturer in the IU School of Social Work, has returned to teaching after a six-week suspension for a graphic she used in class describing the phrase “Make America Great Again” as a form of white supremacy. A new affordable housing facility for seniors has just opened its doors in Lafayette. New city proposals establish a framework for Designated Outdoor Refreshment Areas, or DORAs, in Indianapolis. Two Indiana college football players are finalists for the annual Heisman Memorial Trophy. Both Indiana University quarterback Fernando Mendoza and Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love were named last night. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

The Indiana Senate will meet today to discuss a congressional map that would flip Indiana's two Democratic congressional seats for Republicans. President Donald Trump posted on social media over the weekend, congratulating the Indiana House for passing a new congressional map. Indiana House Republicans have approved a controversial new congressional map that would dismantle the state's biggest Democratic stronghold. Indiana University trustees came to their South Bend campus Friday for their monthly meeting, where they approved the final criteria for how faculty will be judged in annual reviews. A new volunteer group is tapping into the power of grandparents — and their memories of life before routine vaccines. Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza may have locked up the Heisman Trophy with his performance Saturday night. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

A bill that would redraw Indiana's congressional map to benefit Republicans passed through its second reading Thursday after hours of argument. A state-mandated task force chaired by Mayor Joe Hogsett has advanced two proposals that could fundamentally change how Indianapolis schools are governed. Attorney General Todd Rokita and Secretary of State Diego Morales say a federal agency review found 21 noncitizens have cast ballots in Indiana elections, along with 165 noncitizens who registered to vote in the state. Indiana University and Eli Lilly are working together to expand clinical trials. Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his wife, Lauren Sánchez Bezos, awarded a grant to an Indianapolis nonprofit fighting homelessness. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Republican state Sen. Kyle Walker won't seek reelection next year. Tech companies and governments could be doing more to reduce the environmental impact of AI data centers. Indiana is testing out a new approach to supporting newborn parents in the workplace; one that could eventually reach state offices across the region. Millions of dollars are heading to Marion County schools following a massive funding announcement from the Lilly Endowment. After months of community feedback and discussions, the Indianapolis Vision Zero Task Force presented and approved its 102-page action plan yesterday to reduce injuries and fatalities on city roads. A new exhibit at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway museum highlights the history of race broadcasting. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

A bill that would redraw Indiana's congressional map to benefit Republicans was passed through committee Tuesday after hours of testimony. A push to redraw Indiana's congressional districts has divided Republicans in the solidly conservative state. Last year, Indiana froze enrollment for a program that helps low income families pay for child care and preschool, and the state has kept making cuts. More than 36 percent of people released from prison return within three years, according to the Indiana Department of Correction. Officials in Clark County, Indiana report drug overdose deaths so far this year are half what they were last fall. The City of Indianapolis says it's been hard at work making roads and trails safe after Monday night's snowfall. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Indiana Republicans introduced a new congressional map on Monday, designed to flip the state's two Democratic seats for Republicans. More international students are opting out of attending college in the U.S. and Indiana. As below freezing temperatures continue into this week, Indianapolis officials are initiating winter contingency plans this month and opening shelters to those in need. The Indianapolis City-County Council met for the final time this year on Dec. 1. A new winter event happening Tuesday will offer free nutritious food to Indianapolis residents in need. Three Black Indianapolis artists are at the center of a new documentary in the works that explores themes of creativity, community and resilience. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Indiana lawmakers return to the Statehouse Monday to discuss redrawing congressional maps. A Republican state senator says he'll be voting “no” on mid-decade redistricting – citing President Trump's choice of words as a reason. Indiana families are grappling with increased costs for child care after cuts to state vouchers. The trial of former FOX sports analyst Mark Sanchez has been delayed until next year. In recognition of World AIDS Day, the Damien Center will commemorate people who died of AIDS and celebrate survivors at events this week in Indianapolis. The Athenaeum Christkindlmarkt is back in Indianapolis with food, drinks and festive activities for families. Now that it's completed the first perfect season in school history, the Indiana football team can't afford to look back. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Indiana House Republicans will return to the statehouse next week early for the 2026 regular session. Flipping a Northwest Indiana congressional seat held by Democrats for almost a century is a big goal of the mid-decade redistricting push. A man is dead after an attempted arrest resulted in an officer involved shooting Tuesday afternoon in Franklin. One lawmaker plans to author a bill in the coming legislative session aimed at closing child care gaps. The Hamilton County Health Department is trying to help residents better understand how to apply for health insurance. Indiana drivers should expect a packed week on the roads as Thanksgiving travel ramps up across the state. The Indianapolis International Airport is logging record numbers. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Indianapolis City-County Council member Nick Roberts is one of the latest Indiana officials dragged into threats targeting state lawmakers in the midcycle redistricting debate. Indiana families are grappling with increased costs for child care after cuts to state vouchers. The body of a cleaning professional allegedly killed by a homeowner in Whitestown arrived in her home country over the weekend. Indianapolis is at risk of losing about $10 million federal dollars designated for long-term housing programs. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

The Whitestown homeowner charged in the fatal shooting of a house cleaner was released from the Boone County Jail Friday. Governor Mike Braun has added his name to the growing list of Republican lawmakers who received threats in recent days. The city has launched a new continuous vacancy program in hopes of bringing more than 150 properties back into compliance through the Department of Business and Neighborhood Services. Indianapolis city officials released the new winter contingency plan. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Butler University named Michael Hole as its next executive vice president and provost Thursday. Indiana State Police say they are investigating multiple swatting incidents against members of the Indiana General Assembly. A new initiative aims to give the public more data on the actions of Indianapolis police and crime in the city. Indiana slashed funding for child care for low-income families over the last year after federal pandemic aid ran out. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

A second Republican lawmaker in Indiana has become the victim of a swatting incident.  The price of a Thanksgiving dinner in Indiana won't be significantly different than last year, according to a new report. Two YMCA locations in Central Indiana are offering 24/7 access. Hundreds of residents packed into an open-house meeting Tuesday night in Decatur Township on Marion County's southwest corner. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Indiana Senators voted to return for the 2026 legislative session in January, bucking calls from Governor Mike Braun to meet next month to redraw new congressional maps to favor Republicans. Mesh, a high end restaurant on Massachusetts Avenue, is closing its doors after 15 years. Indiana Youth Institute has announced a new effort, FIVE by 50, to ensure every child across the state is connected to at least five supportive adults by the year 2050. As data centers continue to pop up throughout the Midwest, one community on the near northeast side of Indianapolis is pushing back. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

The Boone County prosecutor charged a Whitestown homeowner with voluntary manslaughter after he shot and killed a woman who mistakenly came to his door earlier this month. Indianapolis's newest innovation district aims to lead changes in human, plant and animal health. The Family and Social Services Administration is ending its contract with MDwise, a longtime provider of health insurance for Indiana Medicaid recipients. Indianapolis officials, advocates and family members of those who have died in road traffic incidents gathered for World Day of Remembrance on Sunday. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Indiana Senators will not be convening in December to address calls for redistricting. President Donald Trump is taking aim at Republican Governor Mike Braun after state Senate leaders said they won't support Trump's push to redraw Indiana's congressional map. Hours after President Trump blasted Senator Goode on social media, the Terre Haute Republican says he and his family were victims of a hoax domestic violence emergency call. Indiana may remove the ability for people to change gender on state-issued IDs. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

The 50th edition of the Percussive Arts Society International Convention, or PASIC, is being held in Indianapolis. Purdue's charitable pharmacy is set to hold a soft opening next week, expanding critical access to medication. A Republican Senator in Indiana has come out strongly against redistricting. The Indianapolis music scene is receiving national attention. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Prosecutors say it will take days to decide whether to charge a Whitestown homeowner they say shot and killed a house cleaner after she mistakenly went to the wrong address. New ad campaigns from conservative interest groups will urge Republicans to support redistricting in Indiana. A neighborhood based initiative to drive tech innovation in the life-sciences sector recently released an impact report on its work on Indianapolis's near west side. Leaders from towns and cities across the state met in Speedway Wednesday to draw attention to upcoming property tax changes. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Local leaders gathered for a Veterans Day service in downtown Indianapolis this Tuesday morning. Workers are now preparing the Columbus riverbank for revitalization and repair. Indiana residents only have until the end of this year to save money on rooftop solar. Indiana Senate Republican leaders have so far said there is not enough support to redraw the state's congressional districts to favor their party. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Partial federal food benefits will be available to Indiana residents starting today, Governor Mike Braun announced yesterday. A recent congressional report says Purdue University is an example as to why there should be tighter limits on students from China and academic partnerships with the country. Hoosiers that get their health insurance through the federal healthcare marketplace could see their premiums go up significantly. A vigil was held last night for a house cleaner who was shot and killed after she went to the wrong home in Whitestown. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Prosecutors are weighing charges in a deadly shooting in suburban Indianapolis that's drawing national attention. A new report from the Fair Housing Center of Central Indiana details growing challenges for local renters in search of affordable housing. In his victory speech after being elected mayor of New York City, Zohran Mamdani quoted labor activist Eugene Debs. As uncertainty surrounding the SNAP benefits continues, recipients are wondering when — or if — their benefits will come. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita sued Indianapolis Public Schools, alleging the district's policies restrict cooperation with federal immigration authorities in violation of Indiana's anti-sanctuary law. A new, unrestricted cash initiative will help pregnant women in Indianapolis. Indiana's I-70 eastbound welcome center has reopened after more than two years of reconstruction. Roughly half of Central Indiana residents experienced food insecurity in the past year, according to a new survey from the Indy Hunger Network. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Indiana is making more children repeat third grade under a new reading rule. House Speaker Pro Tem Mike Karickhoff won't seek reelection next year. Prosperity Indiana, an economic advocacy group, released its policy priorities for 2026. With federal food assistance uncertainty this month local service organizations are stepping up. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

More than 570,000 Hoosiers receive federal food benefits — including nearly 150,000 people across Central Indiana. Indiana voters decided several school tax questions Tuesday. The most-watched was in Avon, where a statewide official weighed in. The company behind a proposed data center in the Martindale Brightwood neighborhood filed a rezoning application with the city. The 25th anniversary of the Indianapolis LGBT Film Festival is the weekend. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

A study identified Indianapolis as the best place to relocate a casino licence in Indiana. A Carmel High student has recently launched a nonprofit organization focused on clean water initiatives in Africa. Indiana lawmakers will meet during the first two weeks of December to discuss redistricting. The average cost of daycare in Indiana is more than $8,500 a year, and for many families that can be out of reach. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

In the early hours of Sunday, IMPD responded to a shooting inside a downtown lounge. Democratic state senator Shelli Yoder met a group of constituents in Bloomington over the weekend to discuss Republican plans to redistrict. SNAP benefits are at risk for nearly 600,000 Hoosiers who use the federal food assistance program. Local non-profit Soul Food Project recently launched a community composting effort. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Indiana University reversed course and will allow the Indiana Daily Student Newspaper to resume print editions. Students from across the country gathered in downtown Indianapolis this week to kick off the 98th National FFA Convention and Expo. A new low barrier resource for unhoused Hoosiers is coming to Fountain Square. Tariffs, immigration and the government shutdown have created a precarious U.S. market that Indiana is not immune to. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

As communities across Indiana gear up for a spooky Halloween, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department has a few recommendations to make the day as safe as it is fun. Delivery robots, similar to ones you might have seen taking food around town, are making their way into hospitals. The National Future Farmers of America Convention and Expo will remain in Indianapolis through 2040. Indiana stopped giving new child care vouchers last year amid a funding shortfall. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Earlier this week, the Indiana State Police called for the public's help to help find two tortoises stolen from the Indianapolis Zoo. The tortoises have been found. An overseas expedition to potentially find the remains of Amelia Earhart's plane has been delayed. Indiana's lieutenant governor has stepped into a local issue over a school property tax referendum on next week's ballot. Indiana's monthly employment report was delayed this month due to the government shutdown. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

A week before the world learned of a jewelry heist in France, the Indianapolis zoo was grappling with a theft of its own: two small tortoises. The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department recently released the initial draft of its 5-year strategic plan after months of gathering community input and data. About 100 clergy, religious leaders and community members gathered outside the state prison near Kokomo, Indiana. Governor Mike Braun has called for a special legislative session to consider redrawing the boundaries of Indiana's congressional districts. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Governor Mike Braun said he'll sign a proclamation to call for a special legislative session, to consider redrawing the boundaries of Indiana's congressional districts. A program that helps Hoosiers pay their energy bills will no longer use the 211 phone service for applications. The executive director of the Indiana State Fair Commission announced her retirement after nearly 40 years. A new behavioral health crisis center is open for Hamilton County residents. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

This past weekend the inaugural Indiana high school girls flag football crowned its first champion. Former Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels publicly opposed mid-cycle redistricting in a Washington Post op ed Wednesday. The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles is opening a second public comment period on a proposed rule to eliminate gender changes on driver's licenses. A new Google data center planned for rural Indiana could use as much power as the entire city of Indianapolis. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Indianapolis and state officials celebrated the completion of a section of trail that will eventually connect Indianapolis, Fishers, and Noblesville. The City of Indianapolis is converting a handful of downtown streets from one-way to two-way traffic. A state-approved pilot program that could change how Indianapolis schools share buses and buildings. Emergency Medical Services in Clinton County says it's the first EMS agency in the nation to use a new technology for breathing machines. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.