State Chamber president to speak
Kevin Brinegar, president and chief executive officer of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, will discuss major issues that are expected to affect the economy and economic development in the region, during a “Lunch With Brinegar” at 11:30 a.m., Aug. 19, at the University of Evansville. The program for business and economic development leaders will mark Brinegar’s fifth stop on a seven-city statewide tour as part of the lunch series. Brinegar is expected to update attendees on how actions, taken by the 2009 Indiana General Assembly, will impact Hoosier businesses.
Plan would cut number of poll sites
If Allen County’s director of elections has anything to say about it, the number of polling places will be cut by nearly two-thirds – a cut Beth Dlug insists would benefit political parties, voters and taxpayers alike. Dlug is expected to present today to members of the County Election Board a plan that would replace 146 precinct-specific polling locations with 40 larger “vote centers” open to all registered county voters regardless of address. Although the change would require approval by the state General Assembly – meaning it could not be implemented until next year at the earliest – Dlug said it’s not too early to start planning for the day Allen County residents can vote wherever is most convenient for them.
Press continues for tweaks in Sunday liquor sale laws
State laws that prevent Hoosiers from buying alcohol on Sundays have baffled many drinkers for years. “Why shouldn’t they? We can drink it on Sundays,” said Edward Johnson, a Chalmers resident. Hoosiers for Beverage Choices, a group pushing for changes in the laws, visited West Lafayette Wednesday to tout its current membership drive and its efforts to sway lawmakers. More than 25,000 people have signed up to support the cause, said Matt Norris, the group’s director.
More time, more proof and more security for state IDs
Motorists who renew their Indiana driver’s licenses or obtain new ones will have to present documents to prove their identities beginning next year. Bureau of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Andy Miller said Wednesday the one-time requirement is part of an effort to stem identity theft by complying with the 9/11 commission’s recommendations and federal law. Anyone who gets a new license or state ID or renews one after Jan. 1 will have to prove his or her identity, Social Security number, citizenship or immigration status and state residency. Documents that can be used include birth certificates or passports, Social Security cards or W2 forms, and bank statements or utility bills issued within 60 days.
