House Bill 1134, introduced in Indiana on April 2, 2025, aims to expand the scope of executive sessions for state and local agency governing bodies. The bill allows these bodies to hold private meetings on specific topics, including employee health care options, individual employee compensation matters, changes to employee handbooks, negotiations on publicly bid contracts, and the solicitation of contract proposals that contain proprietary information.

The bill was initially read in the House on January 8, 2025, and has undergone several amendments before passing with a significant majority—91 votes in favor and only 4 against. It has since moved to the Senate, where it was favorably reported by the Committee on Local Government on March 27, 2025.

Supporters of House Bill 1134 argue that the measure is necessary to protect sensitive information and ensure that discussions regarding employee matters and contract negotiations can occur without public scrutiny, which could lead to increased costs or compromise negotiations. However, critics express concerns about transparency, arguing that expanding the use of executive sessions could limit public oversight and accountability in government operations.

The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and its passage could have significant implications for how state and local agencies conduct their business, potentially leading to more private discussions on critical issues. As the legislative process continues, stakeholders are closely monitoring the bill's progress and its potential impact on public governance in Indiana.