Fort Wayne, Ind. (WOWO) —In an interview on WOWO’s Morning News, Indiana State Senator Liz Brown shared her perspective on several of the state’s most debated bills, ranging from stadium financing to cooperation between local law enforcement and federal authorities. Known for her meticulous ap proach to legislation, Brown didn’t shy away from explaining why she sometimes stands apart from her colleagues. When asked about her vote against a bill designed to create a regional authority with broad powers—including land acquisition, bond issuance, and construction financing—Brown emphasized transparency and caution. “I just like to know what we’re voting on,” she said. “There’s a lot of issues that have yet to be decided. It was just a very broad framework, and I needed a few more details because taxpayers are going to be involved.” Brown’s concern about public funding wasn’t abstract. “As I understand it, the Bears would pay for the stadium itself, but taxpayers would be on the hook for anything surrounding the infrastructure,” she explained. “I don’t want to… I’m not part of the deal, obviously, so I need to know a little bit more, and I think a lot of my colleagues will probably feel the same.” The conversation shifted toward Indiana’s potential budget surplus projected for 2027. Brown noted the tension between new spending and tax relief. “As Hoosiers, we’d obviously love to see tax relief instead of spending on some new things,” she said, referencing ongoing legislation like Senate Bill 243, which includes temporary tax credits and a proposed Social Security deduction. “We do have reserves, but we don’t have unlimited reserves.” Brown’s legislative portfolio extends beyond fiscal policy. She is the author of Senate Bill 76, aimed at expanding cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. “Last year, the biggest impediment was that law enforcement said we need training to do this,” she said. “No one was opposed to supporting… but this involves our jails, and it’s important they’re trained and certified to do it right.” The bill, Brown explained, clarifies that local law enforcement is not being asked to perform federal duties. “We’re not saying, ‘Fort Wayne police, you’ve got to go out and do this immigration work.’ No. It’s just don’t obstruct. If they ask for help, help.” She added that sheriffs, who oversee county jails, were supportive. “They have no concern. It’s procedural; it’s making sure things are done properly and safely.” Brown also highlighted other components of the legislation, including preventing illegal employment and codifying that Indiana does not support sanctuary policies. “We’re putting into code what Hoosiers are already doing,” she said. “Employers who follow best practices are protected. If someone breaks the law knowingly, we’re going to come after them.” Throughout the interview, Brown’s approach was pragmatic and detail-oriented, reflecting her commitment to transparency and taxpayer accountability. “I just try to be true to… well, first of all, let me be fully transparent—I have a son who’s a huge Bears fan,” she joked. “But seriously, I need to know exactly what we’re voting on before we move forward.” Whether navigating the complexities of state budgeting or law enforcement legislation, Brown’s cautious, methodical approach offers a glimpse into the deliberative processes that often go unseen in Indianapolis. As she put it, “There’s probably several other opportunities to look at [these bills], but we need to be careful. Our reserves are finite, and our decisions have real-world consequences.” The post WOWO EXCLUSIVE – Senator Brown updated Kayla on Pending Legislation appeared first on WOWO News/Talk 92.3 FM and 1190 AM. ...read more read less