Latest News & Headlines

Next Meeting

The Commission's next meeting will be on Wednesday, August 19, 2020, from 10 a.m. to noon, location TBD. 

Calling Youth Leaders!

The Children's Commission encourages youth to get involved in public policy and make their voices heard. Applications are now being accepted for the Youth Engagement Summit (YES) Fellowship. Open to youth ages 14-23, with preference for those who have personal experience with any state system (mental health, child welfare, juvenile justice, disability, social services). See the flyer and the role description, and apply here. Applications are due on August 9.

Legislative Wrap-up

Here is a summary of the bills that passed in 2020 that could have an impact on children and families.

Census 2020

Read about the importance of ensuring that all children be counted in the 2020 Census, and find out how you can help.

Infant Mortality

Indiana's infant mortality rate declined from 7.3 to 6.8 per 1,000 babies born in 2018, the largest decrease in six years. While black and hispanic infant deaths declined 16 and 20 percent respectively, racial disparities remain and more work needs to be done. Learn more. 

New Strategic Plan

At its December 2019 meeting, the Commission adopted a new strategic plan to guide its work from 2020 through 2022.

Trauma Definitions

At its July 2019 meeting, the Commission endorsed a set of definitions related to trauma and adverse childhood experiences. These definitions will serve as a common language for state agencies, contractors/grantees, and other organizaions tasked with improving understanding of childhood trauma and trauma-informed practice.

Is Marijuana Safe?

Definitely not for developing brains, whether they belong to infants in utero, children, or youth. Read the U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory on Marijuana Use and the Developing Brain