LEGISLATIVE SERVICES AGENCY
OFFICE OF FISCAL AND MANAGEMENT ANALYSIS
200 W. Washington St., Suite 301
Indianapolis, IN 46204
(317) 233-0696
iga.in.gov
FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT
LS 6990 NOTE PREPARED: Jan 23, 2024
BILL NUMBER: HB 1235 BILL AMENDED:
SUBJECT: Prohibited Causes of Action Concerning Firearms.
FIRST AUTHOR: Rep. Jeter BILL STATUS: As Passed House
FIRST SPONSOR: Sen. Freeman
FUNDS AFFECTED:XGENERAL IMPACT: State & Local
DEDICATED
FEDERAL
Summary of Legislation: This bill has the following provisions:
A. It provides that only the state of Indiana may bring or maintain an action by or on behalf of a
political subdivision against a firearm or ammunition manufacturer, trade association, seller, or
dealer, concerning certain matters.
B. It prohibits a political subdivision from otherwise independently bringing or maintaining such an
action. It specifies an exception.
Effective Date: Upon passage; July 1, 2024.
Explanation of State Expenditures: The Office of the Attorney General should have adequate resources
to take any legal action. Any filings or continuation of an ongoing lawsuit against a firearm or ammunition
manufacturer, trade association, seller, or dealer would be at the discretion of the Attorney General.
Explanation of State Revenues:
Explanation of Local Expenditures: Local units of government would no longer be permitted to bring or
maintain any new or ongoing lawsuits against firearms or ammunition manufacturers, trade associations,
sellers, or dealers.
Additional Information – One lawsuit is active in state courts. The city of Gary filed a lawsuit against Smith
and Wesson Inc., Blythes Sport Shop, and other retail centers and manufacturers.
HB 1235 1 Explanation of Local Revenues:
State Agencies Affected: Office of the Attorney General
Local Agencies Affected: Local units of government
Information Sources: City of Gary, Indiana v. Smith & Wesson Corp., et al. 18A-CT-00181
Fiscal Analyst: Mark Goodpaster, 317-232-9852.
HB 1235 2