Politics & Government
Freeman Appointed As Indiana Corrections Committee Chair
The Indianapolis Republican has served on the committee since he was first elected to the state senate in 2016.
By Whitney Downard, Tennessee Lookout
October 13, 2022
Sen. Aaron Freeman, R-Indianapolis, will serve as the new chair of the chamber’s Corrections and Criminal Law Committee, starting Thursday.
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Senate President Pro Tem Rodric Bray, R-Martinsville, announced the change in a release, noting Freeman’s experience as a practicing attorney and service on the committee since first elected in 2016.
“Sen. Freeman is well qualified to serve as the next chair of the Senate corrections committee given his broad and practical experience working in a variety of roles throughout Indiana’s criminal justice system,” Bray said in a statement. “Aaron is passionate about making sure our laws are fair for both victims of crimes and those accused, and I’m confident he will serve Hoosiers well as he takes on this important role.”
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The committee oversees criminal justice issues and vets bills related to criminal penalties and rehabilitation.
“Issues that come before the corrections committee can be complex and wide-reaching, so it’s important our committee has robust discussions as we sift through issues pertaining to criminal behaviors, deterrence and rehabilitation,” Freeman said in a statement. “I am grateful for the opportunity to chair this committee and pledge that we will always endeavor to put Hoosiers first as we continue to improve our justice system so it works well for all those affected by it.”
The announcement is a changing of the guard from longtime chairman Sen. Michael Young, R-Indianapolis. Young left the caucus during the summer special session, detailing his dismay at the GOP approach to an abortion ban that included exceptions for rape and incest. But it was unclear if he would lose his leadership post for the full session in January.
Bray acknowledged Young, saying he was grateful for his contributions.
It is the second major change in Senate Republican leadership, as Bray also replaced the Majority Floor Leader.
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