First State Focus

Debate lasted more than three hours, at which point House Democrats used a motion to force a vote on the measure.

The state is considering several firearms bills that would prohibit guns on college campuses, more narrowly define a firearm and create a volunteer gun owner registry.

Statistics released earlier this month reveal a slight decrease in overdose deaths for the first time in 10 years.

President Biden addressed the Delaware delegation at the beginning of the event in what White House personnel said was a surprise visit.

While the overall rate dropped, overdoses and drug use are rising in Black and Hispanic/Latino communities across the state.

Auditor Lydia York cites poor management and a slow response to address the financial reporting problems with the state’s unemployment fund.

COVID-19 enhancements also disappear later this year for workers and retirees.

The legislation allows an environmentally-friendly cremation option that turns the body into soil. It passed with bipartisan support in both chambers.

Eugene Young served as director of the Delaware State Housing Authority before stepping down earlier this month to focus on campaigning.

When GOP presidential challenger Nikki Haley suspended her campaign two weeks ago, no challengers were left for either presidential contender.

Women, including women of color, are holding leadership positions in state government in record numbers.

The U.S. Third Circuit Court of Appeals in Philadelphia is weighing whether to grant requests by gun rights advocates to bar Delaware laws they argue are unconstitutional.

"Permit-to-purchase laws work,” said Rep. Melissa Minor-Brown. “States with permit laws have 25% lower gun homicide rates, 50% lower gun suicide rates.”

Carney called on lawmakers to pass some of his priorities in his last year in office to set up the next governor for success.

State funding for high school wellness health has remained stagnant, and there’s no financial support to expand centers in elementary schools.