ISMA thanks Rep. Rita Fleming, MD (D-Jeffersonville) for her nearly six years of distinguished service in the Indiana House of Representatives. 

Dr. Fleming resigned from the House on May 13, citing her desire to spend more time with her 15 grandchildren. Dr. Fleming authored this year’s successful effort to direct hospitals to offer long-acting reversible subdermal contraception to Medicaid-eligible patients who give birth there. The retired OB-GYN also authored a 2022 law prohibiting prisons and jails from using restraints on pregnant inmates during labor or delivery.

“Through three terms in the House, Dr. Fleming has been a consistent and influential voice for improving the health of her constituents and of all Hoosiers,” said John Ruckelshaus, ISMA vice president of government affairs. “Her medical background and bipartisan approach will be greatly missed in the General Assembly.”

Dr. Fleming was facing a reelection rematch against Jeffersonville City Councilman Scott Hawkins (R), who lost to Dr. Fleming by just 226 votes in 2022. Democratic precinct leaders in the Clark County district must caucus within a month to choose someone to serve the six months remaining in Dr. Fleming’s term, and a new candidate to replace Fleming on the ballot.

Dr. Fleming’s exit leaves House Public Health Chairman Brad Barrett, MD (R-Richmond) and Sen. Tyler Johnson, DO (R-Leo) as the only physicians in the General Assembly. Barrett is currently unopposed for reelection, while Johnson will face voters in 2026.