The Indiana House of Representatives reconvened briefly Monday afternoon, but no business could be conducted because most House Democrats remain holed up in Illinois."The roll call shows 62 members present. For the beginning of the third week In a row, we fail to have a quorum for the conduct of business, much to the pleasure of the protesters," said Republican House Speaker Brian Bosma, referring to pro-union groups that have been holding demonstrations at the Statehouse. Bosma recessed the chamber until 3:30 Monday afternoon.House Democrats began their boycott two weeks ago to protest the Republican majority’s legislative agenda, specifically bills dealing with labor unions and school vouchers. Republicans voted late week to begin fining Democrats $250 per day for their absence starting today. Democrats say that won’t compel them to return to the statehouse.
Rick Howlett was midday host and the host of LPM's weekly talk show, "In Conversation." He was with LPM from 2001-2023 and held many different titles, including Morning Edition host, Assignment Editor and Interim News Director. He died in August 2023. Read a remembrance of Rick here.
