Advancing Practical Solutions for Delaware

March 27, 2026

Delaware Senate Republicans

This week, members of the Senate Republican Caucus continued to advance legislation focused on real-world challenges such as expanding access to health information, strengthening public safety, supporting military families, and improving the efficiency of our court system.

Several caucus-sponsored measures cleared the full Senate, while others moved forward in the committee process, positioning them for action in the weeks ahead.

Legislation Passed by the Senate

Improving Access to Mental Health Care (SB 208)

The Senate passed Senate Substitute 1 for Senate Bill 208, sponsored by Senate Republican Whip Brian Pettyjohn, to help address Delaware’s shortage of mental health providers.

The legislation creates a licensure pathway for master’s-level psychology clinicians, allowing more qualified professionals to enter the workforce while maintaining appropriate oversight. With demand for mental health services continuing to rise, particularly in rural and underserved areas, this measure represents a meaningful step toward expanding access to care.

Strengthening Protections for First Responders (SB 232)

Legislation sponsored by Senator Dave Wilson to strengthen penalties for damaging emergency response vehicles also cleared the Senate this week.

Senate Bill 232 establishes a Class F felony for intentionally damaging emergency vehicles, such as fire trucks or ambulances, when the damage is significant or renders the vehicle unable to respond to emergencies. Protecting these critical resources helps support first responders and the communities that rely on them.

Expanding Access to Critical Medical Information (SB 236)

The Senate also passed Senate Bill 236, sponsored by Senator Dave Lawson, aimed at improving access to important medical and genetic history for donor-conceived individuals.

The legislation allows individuals, families, and medical providers to obtain accurate and up-to-date health history information—an important factor in diagnosing and treating medical conditions. This proposal addresses a gap in care and supports better-informed medical decisions.

Legislation Advancing Through Committee

Supporting Military Retirees (SB 219)

Senator Eric Buckson’s Senate Bill 219 advanced out of the Senate Executive Committee and now awaits consideration in the Senate Finance Committee.

This legislation would gradually increase Delaware’s tax exclusion for military retirement pensions, raising the exemption to $25,000 over time for retirees of all ages. The proposal builds on prior efforts and reflects a continued focus on supporting those who have served our country.

Improving Court Efficiency and Reducing Missed Appearances (SJR 13)

Senate Joint Resolution 13, sponsored by Senator Pettyjohn, was released from the Senate Judiciary Committee this week.

The resolution directs the Delaware Judiciary to establish a pilot court date reminder program in Justice of the Peace Court, using text message notifications to help individuals remember upcoming court appearances. Research shows that simple reminders can significantly reduce missed court dates, improving efficiency and reducing unnecessary costs for both the courts and taxpayers.

The resolution also calls for a study on the feasibility of expanding the program statewide.

Looking Ahead

As the legislative session continues, Senate Republicans remain focused on advancing practical, thoughtful policy solutions that address the needs of Delaware families and communities.

From improving access to care and supporting first responders to strengthening our courts and recognizing the service of military retirees, this week’s progress reflects a continued commitment to policies that make a difference.

More updates will follow as additional legislation moves through the General Assembly.