The Indiana House lawmaker who led the Chamber’s efforts to address psuedo-ephedrine will head up the House Public Policy Committee, which deals with controversial issues such as alcohol, gaming and tobacco.
State Representative Ben Smaltz of Auburn will head the committee.
“As chair of the Public Policy committee, I’m ready to get to work addressing many of the complex issues facing Indiana,” Smaltz said. “Some of the topics often examined by the committee include Indiana’s tobacco and alcohol laws, and policies affecting the state’s gaming industry. I’ll always do my best to bring a level-headed and responsible approach when leading discussions on these issues, and will work with my fellow committee members to fully explore legislation as it makes its way through the process.”
Smaltz replaces Tom Dermody who did not run for re-election.
When it comes to Sunday sales, Smaltz who sat on a summer study committee regarding the issue said he did not think it was a major priority for Hoosiers in light of other issues such as roads, student assessment and opioid abuse.
A complete list of committee chair appointments can be found here.
Photo: The StatehouseFile
