From the Associated Press:Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels has signed into law bills cracking down on nepotism in local government and toughening penalties for public access violationsDaniels signed the measures Monday along with another bill that reduces the number of state boards and commissions. Public officials will now face court fines if they violate the state's open meetings laws.Daniels called it a victory for open government supporters. The governor also signed one of his top priorities approved by the legislature: new limits on who can hold various offices in local government, aimed at reducing nepotism. Daniels said he is also talking with opponents and supporters of a measure to allow homeowners to resist police entry in certain situations. He says he wants to have those conversations before deciding whether to sign the bill.
Rick Howlett is host of WFPL's weekly talk show, "In Conversation." Email Rick at rhowlett@lpm.org.
