A Full-Service Workforce

Issue 12.17

May 8, 2026

THIS WEEK IN DOVER: HB 306

Representative Cyndie Romer has advanced House Bill 306, which focuses on how businesses use artificial intelligence when interacting with customers. Under HB 306, it would be illegal for a business to use computer technology in a way that could reasonably make a consumer believe they are speaking with a real person — unless the business clearly discloses that the interaction is automated. While many agree that consumers should know when they are interacting with AI, the State Chamber and other stakeholders have raised concerns about one key part of the bill: the private right of action. Read more >

SUPERSTARS IN EDUCATION & TRAINING

DELAWARE RESTAURANT FOUNDATION |

A FULL-SERVICE WORKFORCE

As Delaware's hospitality industry continues to grow, so does the need for a workforce that is not only job-ready, but positioned for long-term success. Representing approximately 11% of the state’s total workforce and employing more than 52,000 individuals, the industry is a major driver of Delaware’s economy. But like many sectors, it faces ongoing challenges when it comes to workforce readiness, retention, and career advancement.

The Delaware Restaurant Foundation is working to address that issue by strengthening the connection between education and the hospitality sector. Read more >

WATCH THEIR VIDEO:

NATIONAL SMALL BUSINESS WEEK

CELEBRATING DELAWARE'S SMALL BUSINESSES

Each year, May is recognized as a time to celebrate small businesses, their resilience, community impact, and hard work. National Small Business Week, observed during the first week of May, shines a light on the vital role small businesses play in Delaware’s business community. Small businesses also represent a strong and important segment of the State Chamber membership. By the numbers, that impact is significant.

98%

of all businesses in Delaware

250,090

people employed by small businesses

57%

of workforce employed by small businesses

$15.1B

in wages generated by small businesses

45%

of all wages generated by small businesses

Source: Delaware Division of Small Business, FY25 Annual Report

In this data, "small business" is considered any business with 100 employees or less.

ADVOCATING FOR SMALL BUSINESS

SUPPORTING A VITAL PART OF OUR MEMBERSHIP

At the Delaware State Chamber, small businesses are not just part of our membership, they are the foundation of it. That’s why we remain committed to advocating on the issues that matter most to them and ensuring their voices are represented in policy conversations that shape Delaware’s future. Recent bills we've engaged on that directly impact small businesses include:

HB 380

Would expand Delaware’s data privacy law, creating new compliance requirements and added costs for many small businesses that use customer data, marketing tools, AI, or automated systems.

HB 306

Would require businesses to disclose when consumers are interacting with AI or chatbots. The bill could create legal risks for small businesses that rely on these tools for customer service and day-to-day operations.

SB 272

Would would require Project Labor Agreements for public school construction projects over $1 million. This could reduce competition and make it harder for many small contractors to compete for public work.

FAST FACT: 72% of Delaware State Chamber of Commerce members employ 100 or fewer people.

IS YOUR SMALL BUSINESS A SUPERSTAR?

The Marvin S. Gilman Superstars in Business Awards recognize Delaware small businesses and nonprofits that demonstrate strong leadership, smart management, and a commitment to their communities. Since 1998, the awards have celebrated organizations that are making a lasting impact.

Think your organization fits the bill? We encourage you to apply!

View the application >

Watch our workshop on writing your best application >

THE CLOCK IS TICKING

END OF SESSION POLICY CONFERENCE | MAY 20

The issues being debated in Dover are real, and so are the potential impacts on your business. As Delaware’s legislative session comes to a close, policymakers are advancing proposals that could reshape operating costs, compliance requirements, and long-term growth across industries.

At our End-of-Session Policy Conference, you’ll hear directly from the leaders driving these conversations, including Senate President Pro Tempore David Sokola and Speaker of the House Melissa Minor-Brown. Register >

ADVERTISE WITH THE STATE CHAMBER

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