To address the continuing threat of terrorism and to work with the federal Department of Homeland Security (created in 2002 following the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001), homeland security in Indiana in 2003 operated under state statute; a new position, terrorism council director, was created to oversee homeland security in the state.
In 1974, Indiana's state legislature created the State Ethics and Conflicts of Interest Commission to formulate and regulate a code of ethics for state officials. The commissioner investigates reported cases of misconduct or violations of the code of ethics by any state official or employee. After holding hearings, the commission reports violations to the governor and makes its findings public. Top-level state officials and heads of state departments must provide statements of their financial interests to the commission.
In 1977, the state established an Interdepartmental board for the coordination of human service programs. Members include the chief administrative officers of state agencies for senior citizens and community services, mental health, health, corrections, and public welfare. The Family and Social Services Administration provides assistance to persons and families requiring help from one of these agencies and monitors federal service programs in the state. The Indiana Office of Social Services Fiscal Office administers programs for the board. An executive assistant to the governor serves as chairperson of the board, which also includes the director of the state budget agency.
Educational services are provided by the Department of Education, the Indiana Educational Services Foundation, and the Commission for Postsecondary Proprietary Education, which accredits private vocational, technical, and trade schools in the state. A public counselor, appointed by the governor, represents the public at hearings of the Public Service Commission, which regulates public transportation agencies and public utilities. Health services are supplied by the state board of health, department of mental health, and emergency medical services commission. Disabled citizens are assisted by the Indiana Rehabilitation Services Agency. The Civil Rights Commission enforces state antidiscrimination laws.