Aspire Johnson County Unveils 2026 Legislative Priorities
Legislative priorities focus on modernizing government systems and strengthening public safety as key drivers of business confidence and community vitality.
Aspire Johnson County, the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Johnson County, has announced its legislative priorities for the 2026 Indiana General Assembly. This year’s agenda emphasizes modernizing government systems to reduce regulatory burdens and strengthen public safety, both of which are critical pillars of a strong and competitive economy.
“Indiana is competing for talent, investment, and high-growth industries, and we must continue strengthening the fundamentals that make businesses want to start, grow, and stay here,” said Aspire President and CEO Christian Maslowski. “Modernizing government and ensuring our communities remain safe are not just public policy goals, but economic imperatives that directly influence business confidence and long-term growth.”
Aspire advocates for business interests by engaging policymakers, convening forums, and maintaining a strong presence at the Statehouse. Through its Business Advocacy Council, Aspire monitors and analyzes legislation, recommends positions, and advances pro-growth policies that benefit employers and the broader community.
Modernizing Local Government Systems
Aspire’s first priority for 2026 is modernizing Indiana’s regulatory and governmental systems to make it easier for businesses to operate and grow. Reducing unnecessary or duplicative regulations, along with streamlining and consolidating government functions where appropriate, will improve service coordination, simplify permitting, and eliminate conflicting requirements.
Johnson County has already demonstrated leadership in this area through two voluntary township consolidations – the only ones in the state – illustrating how local governments can proactively pursue modernization. These broader reforms strengthen Indiana’s business environment and help employers navigate government processes more efficiently.
Strengthening Public Safety to Ensure Thriving Communities
Aspire’s second major priority recognizes public safety as a foundational component of economic vitality. Businesses invest, jobs grow, and families choose communities where they feel secure. Johnson County’s strong reputation for safety has long been a competitive advantage in the Central Indiana region.
To maintain this strength, Aspire supports policies that reinforce law enforcement capabilities, improve prosecutorial and judicial consistency across counties, and expand access to modern investigative tools. Enhanced state support for personnel, equipment, and infrastructure will help ensure Indiana communities remain safe, prosperous, and attractive to employers and talent.