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January 31, 2025

Senate Republicans Investigate Surging Energy Bills, Pledge Action on Costly Legislation

Over the past week, we have received emails, letters, social media messages, and phone calls from constituents regarding dramatic increases to their energy bills. Some increase was to be expected due to the frigid temperatures our state has experienced throughout January, but many Delmarva Power ratepayers have expressed deep concerns about their bills nearly doubling or more compared to the prior month. We have been in contact with the Public Service Commission and liaisons with Delmarva Power requesting answers.


Although most increases are likely attributed to the extremely cold weather, there have been numerous pieces of legislation passed and signed into law in recent years, despite Republican opposition, that have directly impacted the price of utility bills. Our staff is in the process of researching any adverse outcomes the Renewable Energy Portfolio Standards Act may have contributed to the increased costs.


As we continue to analyze the data, we remain committed to identifying solutions that can help lower costs for Delaware families.

Senator Dave Wilson and Representative Valerie Jones Giltner introduce Senate Bill 37

DOVER, DE – On Friday, January 10, 2025, Senator Dave Wilson and Representative Valerie Jones Giltner introduced Senate Bill 37 (SB 37), legislation that would guarantee a right to legal counsel for certain relatives seeking to adopt children within their families after parental rights have been terminated. The proposal would ensure that eligible family members, including grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles, and step-relatives, have necessary legal support available to navigate the adoption process when a child is in the custody of the Delaware Department of Services for Children, Youth, and Their Families.


Although the final estimates are still being determined, analysts and the bill’s sponsors believe the proposal will save the state money as more children are projected to be in the care of their families rather than that of the government.


"This bill is about keeping families together and providing the necessary legal resources for relatives who want to offer a stable, loving home to a child in need," said Senator Wilson. "No family member should be deterred from stepping up simply due to the cost of legal representation."


SB 37 specifies that eligible relatives will be appointed free legal counsel during all stages of the adoption process if the child is in state custody and parental rights have been terminated. The legislation addresses a critical gap in current adoption laws by ensuring relatives have equitable access to representation. The eligible relatives may waive their right to counsel if they wish.


"By passing this bill, we are making it easier for families to stay connected and for children to find permanent, supportive homes with relatives they know and trust," Representative Jones Giltner stated. "This is a common-sense measure that prioritizes the well-being of Delaware's children."


SB 37 has been assigned to the Senate Judiciary Committee.

LIFE Conference

Senator Buckson was honored to speak at this year’s LIFE Conference, an event dedicated to providing resources and promoting full community integration for individuals with disabilities and their families.


The event highlighted critical discussions surrounding independence, education, family support, and impactful policy changes. Senator Buckson extends his gratitude to all who attended and contributed to this meaningful conference, advancing essential conversations to support individuals with disabilities across Delaware.

Confirmations in Session This Week

This week, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to everyone confirmed during the Senate sessions. Your dedication and service to Delaware are truly valued, and we look forward to the positive impact you will make in your new roles.



Confirmations:


  • Lakresha R. Moultrie, Secretary of Labor
  • Shanté A. Hastings, Secretary of Delaware Department of Transportation
  • General James A. Benson, Adjutant General of Delaware National Guard
  • Gregory B. Patterson, Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
  • Gregory A. Lane, Chief Information Officer of Technology and Information
  • Josette D. Manning, Secretary of the Department of Health and Social Services
  • Steven E. Yeatman, Secretary of the Department of Services for Children, Youth, and Their Families
  • Cynthia M. Marten, Secretary of the Department of Education
  • Matthew J. Heckles, Director of the Delaware State Housing Authority
  • Terra R. Taylor, Commissioner of the Department of Correction
  • James Brian Maxwell, Director of the Office of Management and Budget
  • Michael R. Smith, Secretary of the Department of Finance
  • Charuni P. Patibanda-Sanchez, Secretary of the Department of State
  • T. Yvonne A. Gordon, Ed.D, Secretary of the Department of Human Resources
  • William Donald Clifton II, Secretary of the Department of Agriculture
  • Joshua A. Bushweller, Secretary of the Department of Safety and Homeland Security


Senator Buckson Leads Bipartisan Effort to Address Staffing Shortages with Senate Bill 52

DOVER – Senator Eric Buckson introduced Senate Bill 52 (SB 52) on Tuesday, a bipartisan effort aimed at alleviating staffing shortages in schools and state agencies with 24-hour shifts by updating employment rules for state pensioners.


Under current law, pensioners returning to work in designated positions must adhere to a six-month separation of service period and are subject to an annual earnings cap of $50,000. SB 52 seeks to remove the earnings cap starting in 2025, lower the age threshold for separation requirements to those under 59 ½, and reduce the separation period from six months to three. The bill also clarifies that substitute teachers employed by charter schools will be covered under the same provisions as those in public school districts.


Senator Buckson emphasized the importance of these changes in addressing critical workforce needs across the state.


“Our schools and essential state agencies are facing significant staffing shortages, and arbitrary restrictions on pensioners who are willing and able to work are only making the problem worse,” said Senator Buckson. “This bill strikes a balance by allowing experienced professionals to step in where they’re needed most while maintaining compliance with federal regulations. It's a practical solution that benefits both our workforce and our communities.”


SB 52 has been assigned to the Senate Elections and Government Affairs Committee.

USO Resolution

Senator Dave Lawson authored a Senate Concurrent Resolution to recognize February 4, 2025, as "USO Day" in the State of Delaware. The resolution honors USO Delaware for its dedicated and inspiring work in supporting military service members and their families.

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