Hammond Mayor Tom McDermott has issued an executive order imposing an immediate hiring freeze across all city departments. Photo from City of Hammond Community Development’s Facebook page.

News Release

HAMMOND — Hammond Mayor Tom McDermott has issued an executive order imposing an immediate hiring freeze across all city departments, citing concerns over the financial impact of a recently enacted state law.

The move comes in response to Senate Enrolled Act 1, approved by the Indiana General Assembly in April and signed by Gov. Mike Braun. The law aims to provide about $1.3 billion in property tax relief for homeowners, but is projected to reduce local government revenues by roughly $1.5 billion statewide.

City officials estimate Hammond could lose about $8 million annually by 2028. With two-thirds of the city’s budget allocated to public safety, the mayor’s office warned the cuts could directly effect essential services including police and fire department.

The hiring freeze allows for exceptions on a case-by-case basis for roles deemed essential to core city services, public safety or those needed to prevent long-term costs.

McDermott has been an outspoken critic of the legislation, saying it will have severe consequences for communities across Indiana.