HB 1121

Bill Subjects

Abstract

Provides that a state of disaster emergency (emergency) may not continue for longer than: (1) 14 days after the date of the governor's executive order, if the executive order is not renewed; or (2) 28 days after the date of the governor's executive order, if the executive order is renewed for an additional 14 days. Provides that the governor: (1) may renew a state of disaster emergency only once for a period of not more than 14 days if it is based on the same or substantially similar underlying set of facts as the original state of disaster emergency; and (2) shall notify the general assembly at least six days prior to the expiration of the original state of disaster emergency if the governor intends to renew the state of disaster emergency. Provides that the general assembly, by concurrent resolution, may do the following at its discretion when addressing the state of disaster emergency: (1) Extend the state of disaster emergency and state how long the state of disaster emergency will be extended. (2) Approve a new state of disaster emergency if requested by the governor. (3) Limit or expand the scope of the governor's powers. Provides that the governor may not issue a new executive order to circumvent the renewal limitations in the case of a state of disaster emergency based on the same or substantially similar underlying set of facts as the original state of disaster emergency. Provides that if the governor calls for a special session to address a state of disaster emergency, the general assembly shall only consider legislation concerning the same or substantially similar underlying set of facts of the original state of disaster emergency that was declared. Provides that an executive order issued, renewed, or extended shall be made in accordance with the hierarchy of law governing the state of Indiana. Provides that the governor shall not suspend or limit the lawful sale, dispensing, or transportation of any firearms, ammunition, or firearm accessory. Provides that the implementation of certain executive orders does not apply to a violation of offenses related to emergency management and disaster law. Repeals the authority of local health officers to order schools and churches closed and forbid public gatherings when considered necessary by the local health officers to prevent and stop epidemics. Provides that a public health authority may petition a court to impose a quarantine. (Current law allows a public health authority to impose a quarantine without petitioning a court.) Provides that a local health officer or a local or state agency may not close schools, athletic events, and other nonessential situations in which people gather in the event of a quarantine. Makes conforming changes.