You Earned it. Wear it! 

First Call: End-of-Year Orders + What Indiana’s SB 1 Means for Law Enforcement

It’s that time again — year-end budget season. The clock’s ticking, purchase orders are stacking up, and the holiday rush will be here before we know it.

If your agency needs embroidered apparel, custom gear, or uniform pieces before the year closes, now’s the time to move.

Why This Matters Right Now

End-of-year spending isn’t just about stocking up — it’s about budget timing.

Departments across Indiana are finalizing their 2025 budgets, and unspent funds often disappear if they aren’t used by year’s end. That means those jackets, polos, and patches you’ve been planning might need to be ordered and invoiced before December 31 to stay within your fiscal year.

And let’s be honest — when November hits, production queues fill fast. Embroidery schedules, supply chains, and shipping all start to back up. Getting your order in early helps you:

  •  Lock in your embroidery slot before the rush
  •  Spend this year’s funds before they expire
  •  Avoid January backorders or price changes

If you’re unsure about timelines or need help building out a quote for your year-end spending, reach out — our team can walk you through lead times, design approvals, and budget-friendly options to get your order over the finish line.

What Indiana Senate Bill 1 Means for Law Enforcement

Now, let’s talk about Indiana Senate Bill 1 (SB 1) — the sweeping tax-reform bill that’s going to reshape local government budgets starting next year.

Here’s the short version: SB 1 cuts certain local income tax caps and changes property tax deductions into credits. On paper, it’s designed to give homeowners a break and improve transparency. But in practice, it’s likely to tighten local revenue — and that could have ripple effects on law enforcement budgets statewide.

Key Takeaways:

  • Less local tax revenue – Cities and counties could see reduced collections, making it harder to fund essential services.
  • Potential impact on LE spending – Equipment upgrades, uniform allocations, and recruiting budgets may face more scrutiny.
  • Funding delays or freezes – Departments may need to adjust how they plan for new gear or replacement cycles.
  • More public oversight – With new “transparency” tools, taxpayers will see exactly where every dollar goes — increasing pressure on agencies to justify spending.

For law enforcement, it means more competition for fewer dollars — and a need for strong, reliable partners who understand public safety procurement and budgeting.

That’s where Nelson Uniform comes in. We’ve worked with departments across Indiana through funding shifts, grant cycles, and legislative changes. Our job is to make sure you still get what you need — the right gear, on time, and within budget — even when the financial landscape gets complicated.

The Bottom Line

The end of the year is closing in fast — and with SB 1’s impact looming, it’s more important than ever to plan smart and act early.

If you need help navigating quotes, purchase orders, or embroidery lead times, our team is ready to help. We’ll make sure your department finishes the year strong — with uniforms and gear that look sharp, fit right, and are ready for whatever’s next.

Get your end-of-year embroidery orders in now — and let’s keep Indiana’s law enforcement looking professional, equipped, and prepared.


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