ORLEANS — Local residents will have a direct line to their state legislators this month as the first of the 2026 Orange County Third House Sessions kicks off. The event, a collaborative effort sponsored by the Orange County Chambers of Commerce, is scheduled for Saturday, February 14, at the Orleans Town Hall.
The session will run from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., providing a forum for constituents to engage with lawmakers during the current “short session” of the Indiana General Assembly.
The Chambers have extended invitations to three key representatives serving the region to discuss pending legislation and state priorities:
- State Senator Eric Koch (R-Bedford)
- State Representative Chris May (R-Bedford)
- State Representative Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty)
These sessions serve as a vital bridge between the statehouse and the community, allowing citizens to hear firsthand updates on policy changes and voice their concerns on local issues.
Robert F. Henderson, Executive Director of the Orleans Chamber of Commerce, will serve as the moderator for the morning’s dialogue.
“These sessions are a cornerstone of local civic engagement,” the organizers noted, emphasizing the importance of open communication between elected officials and the public.
The public is highly encouraged to attend and participate in this informative exchange.


