INDIANAPOLIS -- Senate President Pro Tempore David Long, R-Fort Wayne, announced changes Monday to the Senate Republican leadership team.

Sen. Brandt Hershman, R-Buck Creek, will replace former Sen. Connie Lawson, who left in March to become Indiana's Secretary of State, as Senate Majority Floor Leader.

The Majority Floor Leader is the top leadership post appointed by Long. The Majority Leader serves as a senior adviser to the Pro Tem and in a variety of roles including administrative management, oversight of the Senate floor and development of legislative priorities.

Hershman will also continue in his role as Chair of the Senate Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy.

Sen. Ryan Mishler, R-Bremen, will replace Hershman as Senate Majority Whip.

Sen. Randy Head, R-Logansport, will replace Lawson as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Government.

All appointments are effective today.