Indiana Governor Mike Braun signed nine executive orders on January 15, focusing on government efficiency, transparency, and accountability.
The orders aim to cut regulations, reduce state job qualifications, and require state employees to return to their offices by July 1, 2025. Braun’s actions also include a new public-facing dashboard for executive orders and the creation of a cabinet structure.
One of the key changes involves the return-to-office mandate, which asserts that remote work was appropriate during the COVID-19 pandemic but must now be reevaluated for accountability and efficient service delivery. Exceptions for hybrid or remote work may be made for employees with satisfactory performance, as long as they are located within Indiana.
Braun’s orders also target workforce qualifications, removing degree requirements for state jobs unless legally mandated, and emphasizing skills-based hiring practices such as apprenticeships and military experience. State agencies will also review their occupational licensing rules, removing unnecessary degree or background check requirements and training hours that exceed industry standards.
Additional reforms include reducing administrative rules by 25% by 2029 to lessen regulatory burdens, eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion DEI initiatives in favor of merit, excellence, and innovation” (MEI), and implementing a cloud-based procurement framework.
These changes have sparked controversy, particularly from the Indiana Senate Democratic caucus, which criticized the removal of DEI initiatives as a regressive action.
Braun’s orders reflect his efforts to streamline state government operations and foster a more business-friendly environment in Indiana.