Rep. Bartels, Sen. Schmitt welcome Spencer County VOICE students to the Statehouse

Spencer County students were recently welcomed to the Statehouse by State Rep. Steven Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Sen. Daryl Schmitt (R-Jasper).

The students are members of Spencer County VOICE, a local youth group that works to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use and advocate for a tobacco-free future. Spencer County VOICE is part of VOICE Indiana, a statewide initiative that engages and empowers teens to promote a tobacco-free lifestyle through education, policy awareness and peer advocacy.

“I was glad to welcome these students to the Statehouse,” Bartels said. “It is encouraging to see young Hoosiers getting involved, sharing their perspectives and advocating for issues that affect their generation.”

During their visit, the students met with lawmakers to share information about their organization and discuss efforts to reduce youth tobacco use.

"Having local students travel to Indianapolis and meet me at the Statehouse is one of my favorite parts of serving as a senator," Schmitt said. "The students who participate in Spencer County VOICE are the future leaders of our community, and I always enjoy the chance to discuss Indiana government and answer their questions."

To find information about school and youth group visits to the Indiana Statehouse, visit the Indiana Statehouse Tour Office and Education Center.