Braun wants Indiana tax law, state policies to encourage marriage

As Indiana’s legislative session nears its end, Governor Mike Braun has shifted focus from traditional budgetary concerns to strengthening marriage through tax policy. In his 51st executive order in just three months, Braun directed the Indiana Department of Revenue to identify tax laws and benefit programs that may unintentionally discourage marriage. Highlighting examples like the renter’s deduction and college savings tax credits that don’t increase with marital status, Braun argued the system may be penalizing couples instead of supporting family formation. His order also tasks welfare and benefits agencies with reviewing their policies to eliminate disincentives to marriage, with reports due to the governor and General Assembly. However, any resulting changes likely won’t take effect until 2026 or later.

This executive order comes amid broader criticisms of Braun’s policy priorities. While he champions marriage as the “cornerstone of strong families,” he has also recently issued controversial orders supporting coal energy and downplaying environmental concerns. Critics, like the Sierra Club’s Hoosier chapter director Robyn Skuya-Boss, argue Braun is neglecting the real needs of families affected by pollution from aging coal plants. They contend that his administration’s resistance to cleaner energy alternatives threatens public health and future sustainability. Meanwhile, the state legislature has shown little interest in addressing outdated laws or revising tax benefits in ways that reflect changing social and economic realities.