WFYI News Now

Lawmakers are failing those who need the most help, according to advocates and people in recovery who gathered at the Statehouse Thursday. Lawmakers gave a final vote to a bill that will slightly change the state's alert system for when a child goes missing. Cell phones in the classroom have been a problem for years. Developers behind a proposed 130-acre data center on the southwest side of Marion County secured preliminary approval Thursday. Indiana voters will still have the same number of early voting days after a bill that would have reduced days failed to receive a necessary vote. Governor Mike Braun quickly signed legislation this afternoon to bring the Chicago Bears to Indiana shortly after the Indiana Senate gave its final approval 45 to 4. 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 broad immigration enforcement bill is on its way to the governor after the Senate voted to approve House amendments. A dozen lawmakers are sounding the alarm over utility costs. The New York Times reported that the Department of Homeland Security is buying warehouses to expand detention capacity, including one in Indianapolis. A bill to tighten eligibility for the state's Medicaid and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs is finally heading to the Governor. The Indianapolis Capitols will be the fourth and final team in the northern division of the Continental Football League, a professional American football minor league. 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.

U.S. Democratic Congressman André Carson was not in attendance at President Donald Trump's State of the Union Tuesday night. Governor Mike Braun would have more authority over the selection of Marion County judges under a bill through the legislature, despite objections from state Democrats worried the city is being targeted. The Indiana Senate has approved a major shakeup for Indianapolis schools. A controversial Indiana bill targeting abortion-inducing drugs is effectively dead this session. Indianapolis will receive over thirteen million dollars as part of a federal program for local communities. 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.

Legislation headed to the Governor will tighten eligibility for the state's Medicaid and food assistance programs. Legislation headed to the Governor will tighten eligibility for the state's Medicaid and food assistance programs. In Kokomo, multifaith leaders held their seventh vigil to oppose ICE detention at Miami Correctional Facility. A collection of businesses joined together in an effort to prevent the closure of the Indianapolis downtown heliport. 141 acres of forest land in Owen County have been dedicated by the state as a nature preserve. 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.

Celebration of life for Beech Grove officer shot in the  line of duty. Hundreds of ICE protestors joined a cold, Sunday evening march on Indianapolis's north side. The Indiana House of Representatives has passed a bill allowing syringe services programs to continue five more years. Local Author Leah Johnson opened Loudmouth Books to make restricted and banned books more available. There is not enough affordable housing in Indiana. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers shot two juvenile suspects and injured another on the far eastside Saturday night. Residents of Indianapolis' Near Westside, an industry hub for over a century, have experienced higher rates of lung disease for years. The Marion County Sheriff urges state lawmakers to walk back a portion of an immigration bill. 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.

State officials broke ground yesterday on a new national security industrial hub in Bloomfield, Indiana. Indiana Republican lawmakers say they are confident a sweeping immigration bill will make it to the governor's desk this session. Governor Mike Braun signed a nuclear power deregulation bill into law Tuesday. The odds that the Chicago Bears could come to Indiana just got better. 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 ICE detainee has died while in custody at the Miami Correctional Facility north of Kokomo —  the first at the Indiana prison. A massive backlog for state childcare assistance has spurred lawmakers to advance a financial plan. Lawmakers continue to move a bill they say will connect homeless people with resources through interactions with police. Crypto ATMs could soon be outlawed in Indiana, as lawmakers are close to final passage of  a bill. In Indianapolis, Content partner Mirror Indy reports Martin University's eastside campus is for sale. 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 ICE detainee has died while in custody at the Miami Correctional Facility north of Kokomo. Lawmakers in the House and Senate have merged competing bills involving the consolidation of Township governments. Tensions are rising at the Statehouse over a proposal to overhaul the oversight of Indianapolis Public Schools. A commercial turkey flock in Sullivan County has been hit with bird flu, the first case in southwestern Indiana in a year. The wellbeing of children in Indiana has improved according to an annual assessment. Indiana lawmakers propose new penny-policies, after President Donald Trump ordered the U.S. Mint not to make the once cent coins last 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.

The suspect was arrested after a Beech Grove police officer was shot and killed last night. Indianapolis' Immigration and Customs Enforcement field office handles all but seven counties in the state. Hoosiers will vote this year on whether to allow judges to deny some potentially dangerous offenders bail under a constitutional amendment that passed through the legislature Monday. A push to shorten the number of early voting days in Indiana has been slipped into a bill as the legislative session nears its end. Lawmakers aim to crack down on the influence of foreign governments through legislation moving through the statehouse. 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 group of armed protesters peacefully marched in downtown Indianapolis Saturday to protest what they call an attack on Second Amendment rights from the Trump administration. State lawmakers may stop the practice of limiting the number of rental houses in a neighborhood. Advocates are urging lawmakers not to support a bill criminalizing Homelessness. Hoosiers could vote this year on whether to allow judges to deny potentially dangerous offenders bail under a constitutional amendment moving through the statehouse. 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 proposed data center in Martindale-Brightwood has cleared another hurdle, despite significant community pushback. Purdue Polytechnic High School announced its South Bend campus will close at the end of the current school year. A plan to pipe Eagle Creek water to the LEAP Research and Innovation district in Boone County, then return it to Indianapolis, is receiving pushback. Indiana students could soon have another option besides the SAT or ACT to determine college readiness. Portage, Indiana is pitching a site for a Chicago Bears stadium. WVPE's Michael Gallenberger reports. 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.

Construction on a new 10 billion dollar data center for Facebook parent company Meta is underway in Indiana. Construction on a new 10 billion dollar data center for Facebook parent company Meta is underway in Indiana. Indiana lawmakers made additional adjustments to a broad immigration enforcement bill Tuesday afternoon. A revised bill targeting youth gun violence is moving forward after lawmakers softened language that would have automatically sent some teens to adult court for possessing a handgun. Indianapolis now has a unique kind of journalist, one who will serve as both a media critic and a connection between local newsrooms and the community. 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 are reviving legislation that would restrict social media use for children, this time with an emphasis on parental controls and forcing social media platforms to be less addictive. Indiana residents will no longer be able to change their gender marker on driver's licenses. An Indiana House committee moved a bill forward Tuesday to extend syringe services programs. Members of the Martindale-Brightwood community and local activists are calling on Mayor Joe Hogsett to stop the proposed data center development in the historically Black neighborhood. Volunteers gathered Tuesday at Gainbridge Fieldhouse for the Million Meal Marathon, an annual event to help address food insecurity across the state. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources will host seven workshops across Indiana to allow Hoosiers to provide input on the development of a statewide water inventory and management plan under an executive order by Gov. Mike Braun. 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 recent disappearance and death of Fishers teen Hailey Buzbee has prompted Indiana lawmakers to amend legislation. State lawmakers, businesses and community advocates came together last week to discuss issues affecting the more than six-hundred thousand Latinos in the state. Court officials, including judges, could receive added layers of security. Nick McKinley will fill former Senator Andy Zay's seat at the Statehouse. Rivers otters could soon be seen romping around Eagle Creek Park. 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 Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department is conducting an internal review after a viral video showed an officer threatening a teenage driver during a Friday traffic stop. Mennonite congregations are calling on Target to take a stronger stand against federal immigration enforcement actions. Controversial language in a bill aimed at making it easier to build data centers and other large projects on farmland is expected to be struck out this legislative session. Insurance companies would be blocked from charging hospitals a penalty for connecting patients with out of network providers under a bill moving through the legislature. The field is set for Indiana's upcoming primary election. This year, all U.S. House seats, all Indiana House seats and half of state Senate seats will be on ballots. 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.

After the recent disappearance and death of 17-year-old Hailey Buzbee from Fishers, state lawmakers said they are considering creating a new alert system for missing children. Indiana leaders will give “extra” scrutiny to Medicaid and other federally funded, state-administered social services programs as part of a new entity focused on fraud, waste and abuse. Noblesville Schools says it's facing a budget deficit and will lay off some staff in the coming weeks to save more than three million dollars a year. The City of Indianapolis' effort to purchase a downtown heliport, which they're expected to use for a proposed soccer stadium, is on pause. Indiana House Speaker Todd Huston says lawmakers are moving quickly to pass legislation to lure the Chicago Bears to Indiana. 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.

Former Indiana congressman Lee Hamilton has died at age 94, the 34-year representative was a leader in U.S. foreign policy. Doxxing is posting someone's personally-identifying information online with a harmful intent. The Marion County public defender's office says it needs help filling vacancies that have been left open for months. In Indiana, the youth vote is falling behind the national average. A new survey from ReCenter Indiana is looking into why. 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.

Students at multiple Central Indiana high schools walked out of class this week to protest federal immigration enforcement. Indiana lawmakers overhauled an immigration bill to align with the Trump Administration's immigration enforcement policies. Doctors would need to get patient consent for invasive examinations performed on unconscious patients under proposed legislation. An annual census of people experiencing homelessness in Indianapolis was conducted last week. Hoosiers from across the state competed last weekend in the annual Braille Challenge. 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.

Students around Indianapolis walked out of their schools Monday to protest federal immigration enforcement. Residents of the historically Black Indianapolis neighborhood of Martindale-Brightwood are opposing a data center development there. Added support for people with medical debt could come through a measure at the statehouse. And our final story today is a conversation with a long time Indiana Republican now leaving the party because he says is QUOTE “unrecognizable.” 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 vigil last Friday on the east side of Indianapolis remembered those lost under the Trump administration's immigration crackdown. Several protests against ICE and immigration enforcement were organized over the weekend in Indianapolis. The Indianapolis-based media company Audiochuck this week announced they're giving significant financial support to local LGBTQ+ youth. For a second year in a row, lawmakers at the Indiana Statehouse are advancing a bill that would criminalize homelessness. Teenagers in Indiana won't have to worry about not having access to Instagram or TikTok, at least for now. An IndyCar street race will be one of the White House's events to celebrate the 250 anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. 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 would allow Indiana National Guard military police to make arrests and conduct searches when activated by the governor. The Indiana Hospital Association released a new report on Tuesday, warning that many of the state's hospitals are financially vulnerable. A bill authorizing the Indiana death penalty to be carried out by a firing squad failed to pass out of the House. A state Senate bill aims to carry out Governor Mike Braun's executive order to reduce environmental “over-regulation” to help businesses grow. New state data shows a significant shift in where families in the city are sending their children to school. 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 Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department has its new chief of police, and the appointment makes history for the city. Ryan Mears has taken himself off the short list of potential successors to Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett — at least for now. Some non-US citizens and foreign businesses could face restrictions to landownership and higher education with a proposed bill at the Statehouse. Indiana senators approved a bill this week that would extend syringe services programs another 10 years. Indiana LGBTQ plus advocates gathered at the statehouse Wednesday for a day of advocacy. 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 have required Indiana schools to post the Ten Commandments in classrooms is gaining traction, but not before being changed drastically. A bill that would have required Indiana schools to post the Ten Commandments in classrooms is gaining traction, but not before being changed drastically. A State House bill would eliminate the Indiana Natural Resources Commission and a few other state boards. More trails across Indiana are getting funding through an Indiana nonprofit group. 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 Supreme Court Chief Justice Loretta Rush appointed a special judge after Tippecanoe County Judge Steven Meyer and his wife were both wounded by a shooter at their home in Lafayette. Parts of Indianapolis saw over eleven inches of snow over the weekend but Senators still gathered Monday afternoon at the statehouse. A bill that would ban children under a certain age from owning or using social media was changed slightly in the Senate this week. Civilian-led police oversight boards would become advisory only under a bill moving through the Indiana legislature. Results are in for the latest report that grades Indiana's civic health, or how well Hoosiers interact with their government. After relishing the roar of an enthusiastic crowd, the Wienie 500 will return to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. 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 travel warning urges all residents to avoid all non-emergency travel. The state is considering adding more options to execute people on death row. A bill that includes language that emphasizes teaching students the importance of waiting until marriage before having kids passed its first legislative hurdle last week. A House committee chair says a bill that would give Hoosier Lottery permission for online sales and games will not advance this session. IU quarterback Fernando Mendoza is taking his fame to a new realm – national talk shows. 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 Lafayette Police Department announced Thursday night that five people were arrested in connection to the shooting of a Tippecanoe County judge and his wife. The FBI is now investigating the death of former Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay. An anti-abortion group is asking the Indiana Supreme Court to step into a fight over abortion records. Lawmakers approved a bill tightening enforcement around medical abortions, it targets people providing illegal abortions in - and out - of the state. Visitors to Indiana's state parks contribute a lot to the local economy every summer. State lawmakers are pushing a bill to convince the Chicago Bears to relocate to Indiana. 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 Tippecanoe County judge and his wife continue to recover after they were shot at their home Sunday afternoon. Legislation moving through the Statehouse would define gender and sex -- and the words male and female — and adds restrictions based on them. Affordability is a major focus for Indiana lawmakers. Indiana lawmakers are backing away from a proposed rollback to a school safety law. A Notre Dame tutoring model will expand statewide, thanks to 10-million dollars in federal funding. Two free programs that help people facing eviction in Marion County are merging. Indianapolis will make history this spring hosting all three men's NCAA division championship games and the NIT Finals for teams that didn't make it to the big dance. 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 Hoosiers wrote the final chapter of a remarkable season Monday night, beating Miami, 27 to 21, in the college football championship game. Hundreds of students at Carmel High School walked out Tuesday afternoon as part of a nationwide protest against the Trump Administration. Lawmakers are once again trying to dissolve some township governments in Indiana. Indianapolis Public Schools is changing its official stance on undocumented students following a lawsuit from the state's attorney general. 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 manhunt is underway after a Tippecanoe County judge and his wife were found shot at their Lafayette home Sunday afternoon. President Donald Trump targeted Indiana Senate President Pro Tem Rodric Bray on Saturday for last month's rejected congressional redistricting plan that would have favored the GOP. IU Indianapolis canceled a decades-old tradition celebrating the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with a dinner. Lawmakers discussed a bill on Thursday, tightening eligibility for the state's Medicaid and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs. A supportive housing center for young men in Indianapolis welcomed the public to their fully equipped facility last week. Fernando Mendoza bulldozed his way into the end zone and Indiana bullied its way into the history books Monday night, toppling Miami 27-21 to put the finishing touch on a rags-to-riches story, an undefeated season and the national title. 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 decision on the rezoning request to build a controversial data center in the Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood in Indianapolis has been extended. A handful of affordable housing units have been sold by the Indianapolis Housing Agency and will be under new management. Indiana U.S. Congressman Jim Baird is seeking re-election. A bill that would ban children from having social media accounts in Indiana passed its first legislative hurdle on Wednesday, amid growing concerns of social media's impact on children's health. Homeless encampments are the target of legislation being considered by Indiana lawmakers. Indiana residents face rising utility costs amid an increasing demand for electricity. 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.

Vop Osili announced today that he is running for Mayor of Indianapolis. Governor Mike Braun gave his second State of the State address on Wednesday night. Indiana U.S. Senator Todd Young was one of two Republicans who tipped the scales to block a war powers resolution that would have required President Trump to secure authorization from Congress before launching any further military operations in Venezuela.  This week the Marion County jail reached capacity. A Democratic State Senator is jumping in the race for Indiana's Fifth Congressional District to challenge Republican incumbent Victoria Spartz. Under current Indiana law, bail may only be withheld if a person faces charges of murder or treason. 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 to deregulate zoning in an effort to reduce the cost of building new homes had its first hearing on Tuesday. How much freedom is too much for a child? That question is central to a bill that aims to limit the state from investigating parents for neglect, simply for letting their kids play outside alone. Legislation that would fundamentally reshape education in Indianapolis was debated during a lengthy hearing Monday at the Statehouse. Well-known Indiana philanthropist Lois Eskenazi passed away last week in Florida at the age of 92. Parents in Warren Township have pushed to move fifth graders out of intermediate schools... citing concerns about safety and maturity. A federal grant will help overhaul a street in Beech Grove to make it safer for pedestrians and motorists. University of Miami head coach Mario Cristobal is more than familiar with Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza. 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.

U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz files paperwork  for reelection. A new bill in the Indiana statehouse would create more oversight of psychiatric hospitals. Students at Indiana University are speaking out after an annual dinner observing Martin Luther King Jr. day was canceled. Indiana lawmakers moved to ban ranked choice voting in the state during a committee meeting on Monday). A bill that would restrict ultra-processed foods from being served in schools that receive federally funded meal benefits is being considered by Indiana lawmakers. This time of year, you're more likely to hear coyotes as they look for mates. 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.

Nationwide and in Indiana anti-ICE protests continued this weekend, a call for accountability for Renee Good's death. Recovering rare earth elements from toxic coal ash could be a win-win for Indiana's environment and its economy. Indiana is one of two new national drone test sites, as named by President Donald Trump's administration. A bill that would designate the breaded pork tenderloin as the state's official sandwich has passed its first hurdle. Respiratory viruses are on the rise across Indiana, including influenza and COVID. Next Monday's national championship game in Miami will be a homecoming forIndiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza. 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's senior U.S. Senator is one of just five Republicans to vote in favor of a war powers resolution limiting President Trump. Several hundred people gathered in downtown Indianapolis Thursday night to protest the killing of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE officer in Minneapolis earlier this week. Mayor Joe Hogsett has appointed Police Chief Chris Bailey as the new Chief Deputy Mayor and Chief of Staff. Indiana is attracting data centers from tech companies across the country. A federal court ruled Thursday that IU violated the First Amendment rights of pro-Palestine protesters it banned from campus in 2024 and found the expressive activity policy it passed that August unconstitutional. Republicans in the House and Senate have released their priorities for the 2026 legislative session, prioritizing public safety and deregulation. The Indiana Department of Transportation is postponing more than 300 projects due to funding issues. Indiana University Hoosiers face off with the Oregon Ducks in the Peach Bowl. 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 Sen. Greg Walker is reversing his decision to retire from the Indiana Legislature. Indiana lawmakers hope to crack down on doxing after more than a dozen of their own became victims of threats during the redistricting debate. Indiana law currently allows only lethal injection for executions. Indiana's local communities are struggling to solve one of the state's largest challenges: How to help families get high-quality day care and preschool. An Indianapolis program that serves nutritious food to people in need is expanding to run year-round. Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman has extra motivation for Friday's national semifinal game against IU. 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 U.S. House Representative Jim Baird and his wife are in the hospital after his vehicle was in a car crash Monday. Indiana's high school Class of 2025 achieved the highest graduation rate on record. The Indiana Black Legislative Caucus released its priorities for the 2026 legislative session today Tuesday. The number of incidents where Indianapolis police officers intentionally fired weapons at another person were far fewer in 2025 than previous years. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is cutting the number of vaccines routinely recommended for all children — from seventeen to eleven. Indiana residents can start filing to run in the primary election. 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 gathered at the statehouse today for the second part of the session, following a contentious start in December over redistricting. Three weeks after announcing a “pause in operations,” Martin University's board of trustees announced in a letter published in the I Indianapolis Recorder that the college is closing its doors for good. Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita is suing Indianapolis-based Eli Lilly and Company over the price of insulin. Indiana will not participate again in a federal program that helps families buy food for children during the summer. Indiana Colts Owner & CEO Carlie Irsay-Gordon holds a press conference on the team's season. The transfer portal is one of the big reasons Curt Cignetti was able to turn Indiana football into the top-ranked team in the country in just two years. 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's 2026 legislative session is set to resume on Monday. Indiana Governor Mike Braun and Attorney General Todd Rokita want to place a monument with the Ten Commandments and the Bill of Rights at the Indiana Statehouse. A new program is aimed at addressing mental instability among Indiana students. New leadership will take over at the Indianapolis City-County Council in the new year. The Indianapolis Colts concluded their season Sunday losing to the Houston Texans 38 to 30. 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 University football team has done the unthinkable, winning the Rose Bowl. Murders and violent crime in Indianapolis is trending downward. Ten years ago, Bon Appétit magazine named Milktooth one of its “Best New Restaurants” in America. The Indiana BMV says more people are skipping the counter to use self-service kiosks to renew their registration or driver's license. If you get a drink to go, you might want to think twice about throwing away your paper or plastic cup. INDOT prepares for Winter Weather. 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 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.