December 21, 2020
Dear Neighbor,
I hope you have a wonderful and safe holiday season.

Please remember that at a time when everyone wants to kick back and celebrate, it’s more important than ever that you dig in to slow the spread of COVID-19. 

Whether you and your neighbors celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, or any other holiday, the very best way to honor your holiday and protect your loved ones is to stay home and stay safe — and when in public, wear a mask, practice social distancing, and wash or sanitize your hands frequently. 

While vaccine distribution has begun in Delaware, this pandemic is not over. Our actions now can ensure that all our loved ones can celebrate together next holiday season.  

As always, if you have any questions or concerns about legislation or issues in our community, please email me at [email protected]. You can also reach my office by phone by calling my aide, Chris, at the number listed below.
Sincerely,

Val

Valerie Longhurst, Majority Leader
15th District
302.577.8476
Update on Rt 72 / Wrangle Hill Road Paving
Paving operations are underway on Route 72 / Wrangle Hill Rd / Sunset Lake Rd between GBC Drive and Mabel Lane.

Paving is expected to be completed by the end of the year, if the weather cooperates. Smaller punch-list items for the project will be completed in the spring, once the winter breaks. 

Lane closures and traffic shifts will occur between 8 AM and 4:30pm on weekdays.

Upon completion of the final paving, all newly constructed lanes of Route 72/Wrangle Hill Road/Sunset Lake Road will be Open to Traffic. Daytime lane/shoulder closures will be on-going to complete the remaining work for the US 40 & Route 72 Intersection Improvement project.

Variable message boards will be posted to notify motorists of the upcoming lane closures.
HB 35: Establishing the Behavioral Health Professional of the Year Program 
Each year, and this year especially, behavioral health professionals devote themselves to the care of those needing assistance. This assistance ranges from physical health to mental health, and behavioral health to emotional health. The assistance of these professionals is crucial to the well-being of those seeking support.

This act, sponsored by myself and Sen. Marie Pinkney, institutes a Behavioral Health Professional of the Year Award Program throughout the state of Delaware. Through this program, the state will formally honor and recognize the work of behavioral health professionals, among whom are school counselors, social workers, licensed clinical social workers, school psychologists, and school nurses. This award will provide professionals with funds they can utilize to further their education, as well as necessities for their pupils, such as notebooks, paints, and even visiting artists.

These professionals selflessly devote themselves to those needing help, and this is one way we can give back to those who have done so much to help us.
Delaware Energy Customers Can Save with New Efficiency Programs Offered by Delmarva Power!
Delaware Energy customers can save with new efficiency programs offered by Delmarva Power!

Programs offer in-store LED lighting discounts at more than 50 locations, and $50 for recycling an old appliance.

The LED lighting in-store discount helps customers replace outdated light bulbs. For residential customers, Delmarva Power will provide instant in-store discounts on select ENERGY STAR-certified LED bulbs.  

Delmarva customers can receive $50 for recycling old, inefficient working appliances, including refrigerators and freezers. Customers can also get an extra $25 if they recycle a working room air conditioner or dehumidifier at the same time. Appliance recycling appointments are now available. 

Delmarva Power residential Delaware customers can learn about these and other energy saving programs by visiting delmarva.com/waystosave or calling 888-997-9108.
Current COVID-19 Guidance
With winter looming, Governor John Carney announced additional measures aimed at slowing the surge of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in Delaware, during what is expected to be a very challenging cold-weather season.

A universal mask mandate that directs all Delawareans to wear masks whenever they are indoors with others outside of their household remains in effect.

The following restrictions are in effect, in addition to a previously announced stay-at-home advisory that asks Delawareans not to gather with others outside of their household through January 11:
  • Businesses above 100,000 square feet are limited to 20 percent of stated fire capacity. 
  • All other businesses, including most retail stores and all restaurants, are limited to 30 percent of stated fire capacity. 
  • Retail below 5,000 square feet, all houses of worship, and funeral services are limited to 40 percent of stated fire capacity. 
  • A 10 p.m., curfew will be imposed at Delaware restaurants and bars.
  • Exercise classes at gyms are limited to 10 people and exercise machines must be spaced 10 feet apart.
  • Indoor gatherings at businesses or indoor spaces open to the public must be limited to the lesser of 30 percent of the venue’s stated fire capacity, or 10 people.
Valerie Longhurst | House Majority Leader | 302.577.8476 | [email protected]