Ball State University's Bowen Center for Public Affairs conducts a yearly, nonpartisan, state-wide policy study to gauge public opinion on key social and political issues.
The 2024 results, conducted Nov. 6 and 7, included responses from 615 Indiana adults. It revealed the top three policy priorities heading into the new year as school safety, public safety and healthcare, according to Ball State’s News Center, which published the findings in a Dec. 5 report.
In the report summary, Kevin Smith, interim director of the Bowen Center for Public Affairs and associate dean of the University’s College of Sciences and Humanities, identified those top three chosen policy priorities as “critical priorities that cross political lines.” Smith also said the survey, as a whole, “provides an essential look at the issues that matter most to Indiana residents … a valuable tool for guiding policymakers by reflecting the voices and concerns of everyday Indiana citizens."
Key findings from this year’s survey included stances on:
School Safety and Public Safety
Nearly 70 percent of respondents identified school safety as a "very important" priority, while public safety also ranked among the top issues across all demographics and political affiliations.
“School safety is a concern that resonates universally,” Smith said. “These findings indicate Hoosiers want to ensure their communities and schools are secure, regardless of political differences.”
Healthcare Access
Healthcare ranked as a leading issue for Hoosiers, with 68 percent marking it as "very important." Concerns over affordability, accessibility and transparency remain central themes in the public discourse.
Only 20 percent of respondents felt healthcare providers often or always explain the costs associated with appointments and procedures. One in three reported that providers explain whether appointments or procedures are covered by insurance.
“Ensuring accessible and affordable healthcare is consistently referenced as a priority, highlighting the challenges many Indiana residents face,” Smith said. “This data underscores the need for bipartisan efforts to address healthcare concerns effectively.”
Marijuana Legalization
Support for marijuana legalization remains robust. 62 percent of Hoosiers favor recreational and medicinal legalization and an additional 25 percent support medicinal-only legalization, which Smith noted is a reflection of national trends.
Abortion
More than 80 percent of respondents believe abortion should be legal in cases involving threats to the mother’s life, rape, incest or lethal fetal anomalies.
However, opinions diverge by trimester: two-thirds support abortion rights in the first trimester, while the majority oppose them in later stages.
“The nuances in abortion views reflect Hoosiers’ thoughtful struggle to apply their personal values to public policy concerns,” Smith said. “Hoosiers generally support exceptions, but there is growing consensus for restrictions as pregnancies progress.”
Gun Policy
58 percent of respondents oppose carrying concealed firearms without a permit, and 59 percent support banning assault weapons. Meanwhile, 45 percent favor allowing teachers to carry guns in schools, compared to the 36 percent that oppose it.
“Public opinion on guns reflects both safety concerns and respect for Second Amendment rights,” Smith said. “Striking a balance here is a critical consideration for policymakers.”
Immigration
While 70 percent view undocumented immigration as a serious problem for Indiana, opinions on legal immigration are evenly split: 50 percent favor maintaining or increasing current levels, and 50 percent advocate reducing or halting it entirely. These views often align with political affiliation.
“Immigration remains a divisive issue, but the survey highlights areas of potential consensus, especially regarding undocumented immigration,” Smith said.
Contact the Daily News via email at editor@bsudailynews.com.
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