The governor's primary responsibilities are to:
- Serve as the state's chief executive officer and oversees the functions of the executive branch of government.
- Report to the General Assembly and the citizens of Indiana on the condition of the state each January.
- Recommend legislation to the General Assembly.
- Review bills that are approved by both the Indiana House and Senate. The governor can sign the legislation and it will become law. If a bill is vetoed, it is returned to the General Assembly.
- Issue executive orders on matters important to the state.
- Serve as commander-in-chief of the state's armed forces.
- He also may grant reprieves, commutations and pardons.