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Committee backs bill to limit government vehicle purchases to standard models; State Board of Accounts oversight cited
Summary
The committee endorsed House Bill 1518 to require that government entities buy standard, non‑luxury vehicles where available, with limited exceptions for security and other needs. The Department of Administration supported the bill, and the sponsor said exceptions would be possible through state procurement.
The Senate Committee on Local Government approved House Bill 1518 on a 9‑0 vote, advancing a measure that would direct government entities to procure standard (base‑model) vehicles rather than luxury or semi‑luxury brands when a non‑luxury alternative is available.
Representative Gore, the bill’s sponsor, said he has seen government purchases of high‑end sport‑utility vehicles — “I’ve seen, $90,000 SUVs,” he told the committee — and said taxpayers should not be asked to buy semi‑luxury vehicles as a default. The bill uses industry standard procurement language, the sponsor said, and gives the Indiana Department of Administration authority to grant exceptions.
Brandon Clifton, commissioner of the Indiana Department of Administration, testified in support and said the agency is already pursuing fleet efficiency and asset management policies. He noted the department has received multiple vehicle requests that fit the description but has not purchased such vehicles for the executive branch.
Senator Toms asked about enforcement. The sponsor said the State Board of Accounts would effectively provide oversight through audits, meaning noncompliance could be publicized in audit findings though the bill does not include criminal penalties.
The committee voted 9‑0 to advance the bill.
