Happy 4th of July!

Issue 7.27

July 2, 2021

THE STATE CHAMBER TEAMS WISHES YOU A SAFE AND HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!

This Week in Dover

GENERAL ASSEMBLY FINISHES FIRST

LEG OF 151ST SESSION

The General Assembly finished its first round of the 151st Session early in the morning July 1st. Much like last year, the work performed was largely conducted virtually, but with a much larger breadth and scope of legislation considered this year than during the height of COVID-19 in 2020.

That work included many bills we supported such as bills around our top priority of workforce development, passing the Clean Water Act — which the State Chamber has been working on for roughly four years — and a site readiness fund. Others bills that passed and impact businesses include increasing the minimum wage and expanding the plastic bag ban. It’s important to note that for bills that did not pass this year — like the legalization of recreational marijuana and Paid Family Medical Leave -- those bills remain “live” and will be worked on next year. Read more >

LEGISLATIVE REDISTRICTING 101

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Census Bureau has delayed the reporting of the census data three times. Recently the U.S. Census Bureau directed states that they should anticipate receiving the reapportionment data by September 30, 2021. In a normal year, the data would be reported in either February or early March. The delayed sharing of data means the timeline to complete the redistricting process will be condensed to roughly 30 days. The act of drawing district lines is done by the leadership of both chambers, currently both held by Democrats, with the minority caucuses and the public having an opportunity to partake.

All 21 members of the state Senate and all 41 state representatives will be up for reelection in 2022. Read more >

MEMBER-TO-MEMBER MEETINGS

In-person visits from constituents are the most influential way to communicate with your state senator or representative who is undecided on an issue. Members of the General Assembly consider keeping in touch with constituents to be one of the most important aspects of their job. Let us know that you'd like to host your legislators for a meeting or facility tour >

“Delawareans have pulled together, done their part and gotten vaccinated to protect their families, friends and communities. On Thursday, we reached President Biden’s target of 70 percent of adults receiving at least one shot of the COVID-19 vaccine by July 4. That’s a big deal. It’s why we’re beating this virus and moving past this pandemic after a long 16 months. And it’s why we can celebrate Independence Day safely, surrounded by family and friends. If you’re still not vaccinated, talk to your doctor and your friends who have received the shot. And visit de.gov/getmyvaccine to find a vaccination provider near you.” - Governor John Carney