This study explores regional variation in internet access among Indiana households with school-age children. The lack of access likely resulted in significant differences in the quality and quantity of school instruction received by Hoosier students during the Spring 2020 school closings caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Likewise, this lack of internet access will make virtual learning difficult for some children if schools opt to have online education for the upcoming school year.

Tags: education, indiana, technology and automation, family and households, pandemic

In this report, we examine the cost of different energy sources, evaluating the likely path of expenditures in Indiana across different sources of energy production. We then evaluate the local impact of these choices, focusing on impacts of renewable energy sources on the state.

Tags: energy, indiana, sectors and industry clusters

The goal of this study is to help state and local policymakers better understand the fiscal impacts of the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic and aid with budget planning considerations. We also hope that our work will help federal policymakers understand the risks of diminished public services to state and local economies.

Published June 10, 2020; updated June 12, 2020.

Tags: economic impact, disaster impact, health, indiana, taxes, law and public policy

This policy brief reviews the literature on local government consolidation, provides an overview of Indiana local government structure and the 2006 Government Modernization Act, and discusses seven consolidation attempts that have occurred between 2008 and 2012 under the GMA. A key feature of this analysis is a heightened focus on consolidation planning.

Tags: law and public policy, indiana, consolidation and efficiency, government, taxes

In this impact brief, we simulate the effects of COVID-19 and responses to the disease on local government tax revenues in the short run.

Tags: health, disaster impact, economic impact, government, financial crisis