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Senator Richardson, Representative Shupe Introduce Legislation Providing Tax Relief for Overtime Workers

DOVER, DE — Senator Bryant Richardson (R-Seaford) and Representative Bryan Shupe (R-Milford) last week introduced Senate Bill 299, legislation aimed at providing tax relief to Delawareans who work overtime to support their families and communities.

SB 299 would establish a Delaware personal income tax credit of up to $15,000 on overtime income earned under the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act for hours worked beyond 40 in a workweek. The credit would phase out for individuals earning more than $125,000 annually and joint filers earning more than $250,000, with the credit fully phased out at higher income thresholds.

The legislation is designed to benefit working Delawareans across a wide range of professions, including healthcare workers, first responders, tradesmen, manufacturing employees, transportation workers, and others who regularly work extra hours to meet the demands of their jobs.

“Too many hardworking Delawareans are struggling with rising costs while sacrificing additional time away from their families through overtime work,” said Senator Richardson. “This legislation recognizes men and women who are willing to put in those extra hours to keep our economy moving and provide for their households. If someone is working beyond a standard workweek, they deserve to keep more of what they earn.”

Representative Bryan Shupe said the measure is intended to provide direct relief to middle-class workers while encouraging workforce participation.

“This legislation puts more money in the pockets of the people who work the hourly jobs that keep our society running — nurses pulling double shifts, factory workers staying late, and every hourly wage-earner sacrificing time with family to bring home a few extra dollars,” said State Rep. Bryan Shupe (R-Milford South, Ellendale), the House sponsor of the bill. “By creating a state tax credit for overtime earnings, we’re recognizing that hard work should be rewarded, not penalized.”

SB 299 has been assigned to the Senate Elections & Government Affairs Committee for consideration.

Open Burn Ban

The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control reminds residents and visitors to the First State that Delaware’s annual open burning ban is currently in effect through Sept. 30 and is in place to help protect air quality during what’s also known as the ozone season.

During the statewide ban, most outdoor burning is not allowed. Cooking fires, recreational campfires and ceremonial bonfires are still permitted year-round when they use firewood, charcoal, propane, or natural gas.

Continue reading here.

Small Business Month

Senator Wilson was proud to sponsor Senate Concurrent Resolution 181 recognizing May 2026 as Small Business Month in Delaware. Small businesses are the backbone of our communities, creating jobs, supporting local families, and driving economic growth across our state.

Thank you to Deputy Director Jaimie Watts and Susan Lee, Communications Manager for the Delaware Division of Small Business, for joining us in the Senate Chamber as we recognized the hardworking entrepreneurs and local business owners who continue to strengthen Delaware every day.

Recognizing Mayor Bill West

Senator Pettyjohn had the honor of delivering a tribute recognizing Mayor Bill West for his years of dedicated service to the Town of Georgetown as he prepares for retirement later this month.



Strong local leadership is essential to building strong communities, and the work done at the municipal level has a direct impact on families, businesses, and quality of life across Sussex County. State and local government work hand in hand, and we simply could not do our jobs in Dover without the partnership, commitment, and leadership of officials like Mayor West.

Thank you, Mayor West, for your service to Georgetown and for the lasting impact you have made on the community. Wishing you all the best in retirement!

Nascar All-Star Race

Senator Buckson was proud to serve as the Senate sponsor of House Concurrent Resolution 129 recognizing the NASCAR All-Star Race and its economic impact on Delaware.

Yesterday, he was honored to be joined by Timothy Horne, Vice President of the Dover Motor Speedway, as we highlighted the incredible role the “Monster Mile” continues to play in bringing visitors, tourism, and economic growth to our state. Looking forward to another exciting race weekend in Dover!

Delaware Division of Libraries is Hiring

The Delaware Division of Libraries is now accepting applications for its 2026 Summer Associate Program, offering paid summer work opportunities for individuals interested in technology and community engagement.

Through a partnership with AmeriCorps, the Division is seeking ten Summer Associate VISTA members to support digital literacy initiatives in public libraries across Delaware from June 15 through August 21, 2026. Associates will work 37.5 hours per week helping improve access to technology resources and digital skills training in communities statewide.

The program includes full training and ongoing support, with placements intended to be as close to home as possible. Applicants must be at least 18 years old by the program start date. Delaware Libraries is especially encouraging interested applicants from Sussex County to apply.

Applications are fully online and must be submitted by Friday, May 22.

Additional information and application details can be found through the Delaware Libraries website.

For the Record

Senators Pettyjohn & Buckson, Deanna, and Matt discuss two concerning pieces of legislation making their way through the General Assembly, Senate Bill 249 and House Bill 375. SB 249 passed the Senate this week and HB 375 cleared the House Health Committee last week and is now assigned to the House Appropriations Committee.

Hear more about each bill on the latest episode of For The Record, now available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and more!

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