Indiana law sets rules for health licenses and first responder care

The law describes when cities, towns, and other local fire or police agencies must pay for certain workers’ medical care. The provisions cover police officers and firefighters under listed city, town, district, township, and provider-unit rules. A separate town provision covers current or retired full-time paid firefighters. The care covers duty-related injuries or illnesses and specified medical services. A worker may seek these benefits without first filing a workers’ compensation claim; a denied or withdrawn claim does not prevent seeking them. Local agencies may seek reimbursement from a third party responsible for the injury or illness. The listed amendments and town firefighter provision take effect July 1, 2026.

The law sets education, exam, and permit rules for respiratory care practitioners and students. These rules apply to people seeking respiratory care practitioner licenses, temporary permits, or student permits in Indiana. Applicants must meet the listed background, education, and examination requirements. Student permits limit procedures to coursework the student has completed and documented; work must be on noncritical patients under close supervision. A temporary permit ends when a license is issued or the application is denied, with limited renewal possible for good cause. The provisions take effect July 1, 2026. The registered respiratory therapist exam requirement applies after December 31, 2027.

The law repeals the section defining a crime for transferring HIV-antibody-positive semen for artificial insemination. The repealed provision concerned people who knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly donated, sold, or transferred semen containing HIV antibodies for artificial insemination. The repealed section included an exception for transfers for research purposes. The repeal takes effect July 1, 2026.