July 7, 2021
I was honored to again serve as Senate Republican Leader for the 151st General Assembly. We were able to accomplish a lot despite the challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic and economic lockdowns.

I wish to highlight the work conducted by the Capitol Improvement Committee, commonly referred to as the Bond Bill Committee. We had a record amount of funds at our disposal, with DEFAC estimating a greater than $1 billion surplus. Throughout my legislative career, I have fought for increased dredging throughout the state, but especially in the 20th Senate District. I was pleased to see the Bond Bill Committee allocate $16 million towards these projects, which is by far the most I have seen in my time as a senator and, previously, as 38th District Representative.

For many years, I have been working on legislation to allow non-ethanol gasoline to be sold in Delaware for marine craft, especially Sussex County. The state loses revenue daily because surrounding states do allow the sale. I sponsored Senate Bill 18, but decided to not run the bill this year upon recently learning of a current non-ethanol blend that has been approved for sale here in Delaware.

My fellow Republican senators and I will continue fighting for transparency, low taxes, and responsible government as we enter this legislative recess. The General Assembly will reconvene later this year to approve the new district lines that come as a result of the 2020 census. I will be sure to keep you up to date on that process and all things related to the Senate ahead of our January return.
DEMA Encourages Preparations for
Tropical Storm Elsa
The Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) along with local, state, and federal partners, are closely monitoring Tropical Storm Elsa. 

A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued by the U.S. National Weather Service Philadelphia/Mount Holly for Sussex County with expansion of the Watch expected. The updated track for Tropical Storm #Elsa from NOAA NWS National Hurricane Center is slightly further west, which could mean a more significant impact for the state. The main threats are anticipated to include rain, flooding, and increased rip currents beginning late Thursday. But as we saw with Tropical Storm Isaias last summer, a variety of threats exist with Tropical Storms including tornadoes, high winds, flash flooding, etc. Power outages are possible. Plan ahead now and be prepared.

Prepare Your Home

  • Secure loose outdoor items such as grills, trash and recycling cans, and patio furniture.
  • Clear drains around your home to prevent flooding.
  • Trim back trees and bushes to prevent storm damage.
  • Have a plan for how to stay cool if the power goes out.
  • If you have a generator, make sure that you have fuel and test it in advance. Remember: never use a generator indoors!

For more preparation guidance and information, please view the entire release from DEMA here.
High Friction Surface Treatment Will Require Portion of Gum Road to Be Closed
The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) announces to motorists that the High Friction Surface Treatment (HFST) will be applied on Gum Road between Roxana Road and Shockley Town Road on Wednesday, July 14 from 7 p.m. until 5 a.m. on Thursday, July 15, pending weather. This treatment is weather dependent, and the schedule is subject to change.

WHEN: Wednesday, July 14 from 7 p.m. until 5 a.m. on Thursday, July 15, pending weather. 

WHERE: Gum Road between Roxana Road and Shockley Town Road, Frankford

Detour Routes:

Roxana Road Northbound: Motorists will turn left on McCary Road and continue onto Frankford School Road and turn left on Shockley Town Road.

Gum Road Southbound: Motorists will turn left on Shockley Town Road onto Frankford School Road and turn right onto McCary Road.

Frankford School Road Southbound: Motorists will turn right on McCary Road and turn right onto Roxana Road.

Gum Road Eastbound: Motorists will turn right on Roxana Road to McCary Road and turn left on Frankford School Road and turn left on Shockley Town Road.

Please click here to view the entire release.
411 Legislative Avenue, Dover, DE 19903
Delaware State Senate Republican Caucus
302-744-4144 | Gerald.Hocker@delaware.gov | www.delawaresenate.com