Messmer Column: Maximizing Indiana's Investments

Local Sources- On this week's Messmer Column, State Senator Mark Messmer (R-Jasper) talks maximizing Indiana's investments.

When the state of Indiana invests public employees' and retirees' hard-earned money through the Indiana Public Retirement System (INPRS), it should focus on maximizing returns.

INPRS currently has about $40 billion in pension assets for its 500,000 members.

Public employees like police officers, firefighters, teachers and more work hard for their salaries and expect the state to responsibly invest the money they set aside for their retirement.

That's why I supported House Enrolled Act 1008, which will ensure the state is keeping political and ideological considerations out of the pension investment decisions.

In recent years, many companies have made environmental, social and governance (ESG) investments.

Companies who make ESG investments have been known to boycott industries like fossil fuels and firearms without considering what is best for the employee.

INPRS will be prevented from contracting with providers who have made ESG commitments if the investments do not provide the highest financial return for participants.

This law protects companies that work in industries like oil, gas, mining and firearms. It will also protect companies that have contracts with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency.

House Enrolled Act 1008 has been signed into law by Gov. Eric Holcomb and will go into effect on July 1.

As always, feel free to contact my office directly with your questions and concerns by email at [email protected] or by phone at 800-382-9467.