STATEHOUSE (Feb. 26, 2013) — A bill initiated by State Sen. Ed Charbonneau (R-Valparaiso) that provides tools to encourage economic development in Northwest Indiana passed the Senate today 50-0.

Senate Bill 585 would examine various ways to foster economic growth in Northwest Indiana, including the additions of a second port for Lake Michigan, a level-one trauma center and an academic medical center. The bill would also allow local tax flexibility and revitalize the Gary Airport Authority.

“This bill creates tools needed to spur more economic growth, job creation and investment in Northwest Indiana,” Charbonneau said. “Developing the proposal was truly a bipartisan effort both at the Statehouse and in Northwest Indiana. I appreciate the support from my colleagues and local leaders back home.”

Gary Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson and Gary City Council members support SB 585. No one testified against the bill during its Senate committee hearings.

The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for further consideration.

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