The Indiana Supreme Court on Friday issued an order in favor of Gov. Eric Holcomb in the dispute over the state’s emergency powers bill.

In a 4-1 vote, the state Supreme Court ruled that the lawsuit may continue, with Holcomb suing state lawmakers.

The law, passed earlier this year, created a way for lawmakers to hold their own special session when the governor declares a state of emergency.

Holcomb vetoed the bill, but the legislature overturned that veto. Holcomb then filed suit against state legislators, contending their effort to limit his emergency powers is unconstitutional.

Holcomb is being represented in the suit by private counsel and not Attorney General Todd Rokita.

The Office of the Indiana Attorney General believes the Supreme Court decision to deny our request to hear Governor Holcomb’s lawsuit is incorrect.

Rokita released the following statement:

“The plain text of both the Indiana Constitution and state statute requires postponement of any lawsuit during a session so that lawmakers may focus their attention on the legislative process. Ignoring that protection sets a dangerous legal precedent, seemingly inconsistent with the rule of law. Unfortunately, the court did not give a reason for its decision, which was not unanimous. My office looks forward to debating the merits of the case.”