State Rep. Eric Koch Honored For His Service By House Colleagues

Last updated on Friday, March 11, 2016

(STATEHOUSE) - After serving House District 65 for 14 years, State Rep. Eric Koch (R-Bedford) is retiring from the Indiana House of Representatives at the end of his term.

Fellow House members honored Koch for his years of service through the adoption of House Concurrent Resolution 67. Rep. Koch is among nine House members retiring at the end of their terms.

Colleagues from both sides of the aisle recalled stories, relived memories and reminisced about their time working in the House with Koch. House Minority Leader Rep. Scott Pelath (D-Michigan City) recounted the vigorous debates he and Rep. Koch have had on the House floor over the years. Rep. David Frizzell (R-Indianapolis) noted his close friendship through sharing an office with Koch. As the vice chair of the House Committee on Utilities, Energy and Telecommunications, Rep. Heath VanNatter (R-Kokomo), along with the committee's ranking minority member, Christina Hale (D-Indianapolis), expressed their appreciation for Koch's leadership and dedication during his time as the head of the committee. Rep. Ed Clere (R-New Albany) expressed his gratitude to Koch for serving as his mentor throughout his first few years in the House. Coming in to the House in 2002 together, Rep. Terri Austin (D-Anderson) congratulated her classmate on his years of hard work and wished him luck in the future. Representing House District 65's surrounding areas, Reps. Jeff Ellington (R-Bloomington), Steve Davisson (R-Salem), Milo Smith (R-Columbus) and Jim Lucas (R-Seymour) all thanked Koch for his service.

"Eric's strong leadership and experience as an attorney has been a tremendous asset to our caucus. He has worked hard on issues ranging from public safety to tax reform. His talent and expertise will be missed, and I wish him all the best in his future endeavors," House Speaker Brian C. Bosma (R-Indianapolis) said.

In his closing remarks, Rep. Koch thanked his colleagues for the recognition and encouraged them to continue to "practice civility and respect each other even when you disagree."

1340 AM WBIW welcomes comments and suggestions by calling 812.277.1340 during normal business hours or by email at comments@wbiw.com

Click here to go back to previous page