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The senate will reconvene for session on Tuesday, May 13th at 2:00 p.m. Watch the livestream here.

NEWS: Senate Passes Pettyjohn Bill to Address Legal Gap in Birth Certificate Law

DOVER, Del. — The Delaware State Senate Thursday passed legislation sponsored by Senate Republican Whip Brian Pettyjohn (R - Georgetown) to resolve a legal conflict affecting the ability to list a deceased father’s name on a birth certificate in certain assisted reproduction cases.

Senate Substitute 1 to Senate Bill 119 (SB 119) directs the State Registrar of Vital Statistics to amend the birth certificate of Levi Ryan Murray to include the name of his father, Ryan Murray, who passed away after the creation of the embryo but before its implantation. Current Delaware law does not clearly address this circumstance, leading to uncertainty and delays for the Murray family.

“This bill ensures that Levi’s birth certificate accurately and rightfully reflects his father’s name,” said Senator Pettyjohn. “While SB 119 provides a necessary and immediate solution for this family, it also brings to light a broader issue within Delaware code. Our laws must evolve to keep pace with advancements in reproductive medicine and the real-life circumstances families face.”

Senator Pettyjohn emphasized that although this legislation only serves one family, it underscores the need for a larger policy conversation.

“This situation has revealed an urgent gap in our laws that the General Assembly must address,” Pettyjohn added. “As reproductive technology continues to advance, we need to ensure that Delaware law is clear, compassionate, and adaptable. Families facing similar circumstances in the future deserve both legal certainty and the dignity of having their loved ones properly recognized.”

SB 119 now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.

Senator Buckson Introduces Resolution to Relocate Caesar Rodney Statue in Time for Nation’s 250th Anniversary

DOVER, Del. — As the United States approaches its 250th Anniversary, State Senator Eric Buckson is leading an effort to bring home one of Delaware’s most iconic symbols of patriotism and leadership: the Caesar Rodney equestrian statue.

Senator Buckson introduced Senate Concurrent Resolution 65 (SCR 65) yesterday calling on the State of Delaware, the City of Dover, and the Kent County Levy Court to work with the City of Wilmington to relocate the statue from storage and prominently display it in Delaware’s capital by July 4, 2026.

“Caesar Rodney was born, raised, and buried in Kent County. His legendary ride through the night in 1776 helped ensure Delaware’s vote for independence and, ultimately, the birth of our nation,” said Senator Buckson. “As we approach this milestone anniversary, it’s time to bring him home.”

The statue, which stood in Wilmington’s Rodney Square for nearly a century, was removed and placed in storage in 2020. Originally installed in 1923, it had become a historic centerpiece in Delaware’s largest city and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2011. Buckson noted that while the decision to remove the statue came during a time of national reflection, now is the time to tell the full story of Delaware’s founding, not to hide it.

“Our nation’s history is complex, but Caesar Rodney’s contributions are undeniable. He served as a soldier, judge, assembly speaker, chief executive of Delaware, and more. No other Delawarean has held more public offices,” Senator Buckson said. “He deserves to be honored during the very celebration made possible by his courage.”

SCR 65 suggests potential sites in Dover, including The Green or the John Dickinson Plantation, which are locations that tie closely to Rodney’s life and legacy.

Senator Buckson began advocating for the statue’s return in 2022 while serving as a Kent County Levy Court Commissioner, working alongside Dover City Councilman David Anderson. He continued the effort as a State Senator, initiating discussions with then-Governor John Carney (now Mayor of Wilmington), and engaging with state and local stakeholders.

“This isn’t about revisiting past decisions. It’s about looking ahead,” Buckson added. “With funding allocated for Delaware’s role in the 250th celebration, now is the time to act. Let’s bring Rodney home and share his story with a new generation of Delawareans and visitors alike.”

SCR 65 was formally introduced on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.

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School Board Elections

On May 13th, Delawareans will head to the polls for school board elections, which is a critical opportunity to help shape local education policy. These races may not make headlines, but they directly impact our children, schools, and communities. Be sure to vote in you local school district's election on May 13th!

4-H Resolution

Senator Wilson had the honor of presenting a Senate Resolution recognizing the incredible work of Delaware 4-H and its dedication to shaping the next generation of leaders. As someone deeply rooted in agriculture and community values, he was proud to support an organization that makes such a lasting impact on our youth.

National Wishbone Day

On behalf of one of his former student's daughter Alanah Demko, who lives with Osteogenesis Imperfecta, Senator Buckson introduced a resolution recognizing May 6th as National Wishbone Day in Delaware. This rare condition—also known as brittle bone disease—affects thousands across the country and is deserving of greater public awareness. Alanah’s strength, resilience, and ever-present smile in the face of adversity are truly inspiring. A junior at Caesar Rodney High School, co-captain of the cheer squad, and a beacon of positivity, Alanah has continued to uplift those around her despite enduring over 50 fractures—most recently suffering a patella injury after climbing stairs in April.

For the Record

Senator Pettyjohn, Deanna, and Matt discuss multiple pieces of legislation that could further hinder the availability of affordable housing in Delaware, lack of clarity surrounding bill to allow accessory dwelling units, legislation that failed in the House of Representatives that would have recognized marriages between first cousins, and more.

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