In celebration of LGTBQ+ Pride Month, hear from Rep. Eric Morrison as we dive deep into Pride! Whether you've already found your community or you’re still looking for one, let the DEHouseDems family speak to youBy Delaware House Democrats

On this episode of Whip Count, in honor of Women’s History Month, hear from House Majority Leadership as they discuss their journey in life and the lessons they learned along the way.By Delaware House Democrats

On this episode of Whip Count, Speaker Valerie Longhurst along with Alisa Schneidman, Author of the House of Weird, and Patricia May board member from the Delaware Association for Children of Alcohol and Marijuana Dependency discuss the impact and effects of alcoholism on individuals and the family dynamic. Additionally, they discuss the importance…

Before the 152nd General Assembly officially kicked off, we introduced the five new members of our caucus and their plans to make an impact in Legislative Hall. In part two of our freshmen series, we spoke to Rep. Sophie Phillips about her first legislative session and the surprise lessons she learned along the way.…

On the latest episode of Whip Count, Rep. Madinah Wilson-Anton and environmental activist Anissa Cartagena join us to discuss HB 220, also known as Delaware’s Green Amendment. This proposed amendment would enshrine residents’ right to a clean and healthy environment in the Delaware Constitution and make it clear that all branches, agencies and poli…

Before the 152nd General Assembly officially kicked off, we introduced the five new members of our caucus and their plans to make an impact in Legislative Hall. On this new series, we’ll catch up with these history-making members as they reflect on their first legislative session and the surprising lessons they’ve learned along the way. This week, …

In spring 2023, Gov. Carney, DelDOT, the Delaware Dept. of Safety and Homeland Security, and members of the General Assembly introduced a package of bills designed to improve safety on Delaware's roadways. This week's podcast episode of Whip Count highlights Representative Frank Cooke’s HB 120 and how this bill will assist law enforcement in cracki…

On this episode of Whip Count, Rep. Cyndie Romer joins us to explain her HB 186, a measure that would reduce the number of children placed on the sex offender registry by empowering judges, in consultation with child psychologists and case workers, to decide whether a child should be included on the Registry. Wilmington resident Anthony Gibbs, who …

On this episode of Whip Count, we’re joined by Rep. Debra Heffernan, Rep. Sophie Phillips and Emily Knearl from the Nature Conservancy to talk about the Delaware Climate Solutions Act, a bold step toward tackling Climate Change here in the First State.By Delaware House Democrats

On this episode, Rep. Madinah Wilson-Anton joins us to discuss her HB 62, legislation requiring properties to be assessed every five years. This would allow the state to be fairer in its taxation structure, ensuring that property owners finally have parity. You can find additional reassessment resources here: New Castle County: https://bit.ly/3Irf7…

On this episode of Whip Count, Rep. Paul Baumbach discusses measures that would put money in the pockets of working Delawareans by increasing the standard deduction and refundable Earned Income Tax Credit.By Delaware House Democrats

Recovery housing is an integral part of the recovery journey, providing transitional homes in a substance-free, supportive environment. However, here in Delaware, the lack of standards and regulations for these homes has created difficult and sometimes dangerous situations for individuals recovering from addiction and their families. On this episod…

Just before we gaveled out for the February Joint Finance Committee break, the House commemorated Holocaust Remembrance Day with a resolution and an address from special guest David Meluskey of the World Jewish Congress. This episode of Whip Count features audio from that address as well as a conversation with all three Jewish members of the House,…

Who are the new members in the House? On this episode of Whip Count we introduce you to Representatives Kerri Evelyn Harris, DeShanna Neal, Sophie Phillips, Cyndie Romer, and Stell Parker Selby. The newcomers were recently sworn in at the state capitol, as the 152nd Delaware General Assembly launched its new session. For these incoming lawmakers, i…

Delaware legislators continue work on criminal justice reform through legislation that would ensure clear and concise quarterly reports of an inmate's behavior. Under Rep. Larry Lambert’s HB 394, the Delaware Department of Correction would be required to provide copies of quarterly reports of good time credit earned or forfeited. Tune in to hear fr…

Recognizing the ongoing challenges facing mothers and newborns, Rep. Melissa Minor-Brown introduces us to the 2022 Delaware Momnibus, a series of several bills, addressing issues impacting pregnant and postpartum persons and decreasing infant mortality. Minor-Brown explains how lawmakers and organizations are working together to tackle child and ma…

This week on Whip Count: The 2022 Delaware Relief Rebate explained, economic policies to help Delawareans become more resilient to inflation, and maintaining a strong and fair economy in the First State House Majority leader Valerie Longhurst provides listeners with an in-depth explanation of the 2022 Delaware Relief Rebate and gives us a look into…

Delaware kids are dealing with an unprecedented mental health crisis, and to address it, Rep. Valerie Longhurst is encouraging more people to normalize conversations around mental illness so more students understand they are never alone. Annie Slease of the National Alliance on Mental Illness in Delaware is committed to helping students as well by …

In February, lawmakers announced the formation of the Delaware Legislative Women's Caucus, a bipartisan and bicameral coalition of legislators focused on advancing the shared interests of women. In this episode of Whip Count, the co-chairs of the caucus, Rep. Valerie Longhurst and Sen. Marie Pinkney, discuss the importance of coming together to adv…

Approximately 5,000 Delaware children lack access to medical coverage due to their immigration status. For these children, a simple trip to the doctor for an illness or to get vaccinated is not a financially viable option. In this episode, Rep. Krista Griffith, Sen. Sarah McBride, and Yvette Santiago of Nemours discuss a new proposal that would ens…

People who have been incarcerated often encounter challenges that are very difficult to overcome, which makes it hard for them to build a stable future. Unfortunately, there is no “quick-fix” solution to employment, education, and entrepreneurship for formerly incarcerated people. However, legislation could help reduce a person’s chances of relapsi…

In Gov. John Carney ‘s 2022 State of the State address, he expressed commitment to invest in schools, jobs, economic development, broadband access, and more. Carney also highlighted some challenges during the pandemic but remained hopeful along with Rep. Krista Griffith, Rep. Deb Hefferenan, Rep. Ed Osienski, Rep. Melissa Minor-Brown, and Sen. Sara…

Representative Larry Lambert is committed to educating people about the federal Justice 40 Initiative, which ensures 40 percent of federal infrastructure funds around climate change, green energy and economic development go toward disadvantaged communities statewide. Learn how the initiative would help propel Delaware toward environmental justice a…

The historical memories of the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Justice hit too close home for Rep. Stephanie T. Bolden who shares personal reflections and what community members can continue to do, creating more hope and opportunity rooted in Dr. Martin Luther King’s dream. MLK Day allows all people, as individuals and in organizations, to re…

In October, many people wear purple for domestic violence victims and survivors. As advocates come together to raise awareness and educate people on red flags, trauma, and the paralyzing fear that mental or physical abuse can have on a person, it’s also important to highlight resources and efforts put in place to help. On this episode of Whip Count…

A quality education lays the foundation of a successful future, giving kids the tools and resources they need to reach their goals. On this week’s episode of Whip Count, House Education Committee Chair Rep. Kim Williams and Vice-Chair Nnamdi Chukwuocha, discuss policy solutions for improving Delaware’s schools and creating a better and more equitab…

Weeks ago, Hurricane Ida brought record-breaking and catastrophic flooding to our region, causing millions of dollars in damages. As so-called 100-year weather events like Ida become more and more commonplace in Delaware, the lowest-lying state in the nation, lawmakers are working to mitigate the effects of climate change and keep communities healt…

Rep. Kendra Johnson and Rep. Sherry Dorsey Walker reflect on historic advances to tackle systemic racial injustice in Delaware. In June 2020, the Delaware Legislative Black Caucus unveiled an agenda, packed with bills, addressing police accountability and transparency as well as equal rights and protections. A year later, lawmakers made great strid…

On Thursday, June 17, lawmakers and advocates came together for a Pride Month rally to announce an historic constitutional amendment that would protect the rights of members of the LGBTQ+ and disability communities. HB 199 from House Majority Leader Valerie Longhurst and Sen. Sarah McBride would make it clear that all Delawareans are equal regardle…

Delaware’s landmark SEED and INSPIRE scholarship programs have allowed thousands of residents to further their education and develop important skills without the financial burden that often accompanies higher education. Under new legislation proposed by Democratic lawmakers, these programs could be expanded further, making certain Delaware colleges…

Delaware workers either struggle to balance work, family and health care needs because they don’t have access to unpaid leave. Saving vacation and sick time to make sure a paycheck isn’t missed is also a common reality for some families. The Healthy Delaware Families Act, a paid-leave policy would allow workers in the state to have 12 weeks off for…

When it comes to campaigning, it's a job that isn't family friendly for candidates. In Delaware, people who are interested in running for a political seat can not legally draw from their funds to take care of child care expenses. HB 90 would change that, acting as an incentive for young mothers and fathers who are committed to making a difference i…

Saving for retirement is becoming an increasingly difficult dilemma for workers. In Delaware, as many as 200,000 employees lack access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan. To address this growing issue, Rep. Larry Lambert has worked with our State Treasurer to introduce the Delaware EARNS program. This act would create a state-sponsored saving…

Delaware lawmakers consider legislation that would implement a statewide body-worn camera program. Sponsored by Rep. Sherry Dorsey Walker, HB 195 would require police officers to wear a body-worn camera. The mandate would also require some employees of the Department of Correction and Department of Services for Children, Youth, and Their Families t…

Rep. David Bentz joins leaders from Christiana Care Health System to discuss expanding telehealth services for Delawareans through House Bill 160. According to those who support the proposed piece of legislation, all Delawareans deserve high-quality, affordable health care. Find out if health care professionals will still be able to meet the needs …

Last week, the House passed Rep. Paul Baumbach's House Bill 16, providing low-income individuals financial relief on their income taxes. House Bill 16 reforms the earned-income tax credit in Delaware so families can receive a few more dollars to help with the everyday financial pressures, from daycare to mortgage payments. Tax legislation can be as…

Environmental issues affect our lives every day, whether it's flooding on our roadways or the energy used to power our homes. We’re only a few months into the 2021 session, and lawmakers have already introduced several pieces of legislation aimed at addressing issues such as sustainable development and pollution, making it clear that addressing env…

Lawmakers in Delaware have introduced legislation that would legalize and regulate recreational marijuana for adult users, a measure supported by 60% of Delawareans. The Delaware Marijuana Control Act would authorize the cultivation, sale and possession of marijuana, while establishing a new industry with good-paying jobs in the First State. On thi…

Legislation designed to legally protect all people from hair discrimination could become law if the Delaware House advances SB 32. Rep. Kendra Johnson, Rep. Melissa Minor-Brown, and Rep. Nnamdi Chukwuocha came together to discuss the CROWN Act as well as the pressure to alter natural hair textures or change hairstyles in the African American commun…

Elementary schoolchildren carry trauma and life experiences with them that immensely impact their school and home situations, and without access to mental health resources, these issues can spiral into full-blown crises. In Delaware, one school counselor may be responsible for 500 children, stretching their time incredibly thin and almost guarantee…

The Delaware legislature typically convenes for session about 45 days a year, however, the job of local legislators goes far beyond passing legislation. Our local “part-time” lawmakers stay busy 365 days a year as they help constituents, meet with organizations and state agencies, and volunteer in their communities. Currently, the legislature is ta…

Black History Month may kick off in February but it doesn't end there. It's an opportunity to commemorate the achievements of African Americans and learn about men and women who have made great contributions across the world. Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester and Rep. Nnamdi Chukwuocha share personal reflections on Black History Month, highlightin…

Heart disease continues to be one of the greatest health threats to men and women across the globe. This information is highlighted annually during February, American Heart Month to encourage people to adopt healthier lifestyles. In Delaware, Rep. Melissa Minor-Brown, a nurse and educator shared risk factors, tips, and debunked a popular myth. Also…

In the last several years, House Democrats have proposed pieces of legislation aimed at addressing education issues such as lack of mental health resources in schools, inadequate special education funding, and teacher retention. This week, we’ll hear from a few of the lawmakers leading the charge on education equity and fighting to ensure each stud…

Enjoy this bonus episode of Whip Count with the full audio of Governor John Carney's 2021 State of the State Address!By Delaware House Democrats

To honor International Holocaust Remembrance Day, we're highlighting Holocaust survivor Ann Jaffe's story. In 2020, as Delaware lawmakers prepared to vote on a measure that would mandate Holocaust education for students in grades 6-12, Ann Jaffe addressed the General Assembly. Ann spoke about her experience surviving under the Nazi regime and highl…

In 2020, the Delaware General Assembly passed legislation that requires schools to implement a curriculum on the Holocaust and genocide for students in grades 6-12, making Delaware the 15th state to enact such legislation. This legislation comes not a moment too soon, as a 2020 national survey assessing student's knowledge of the Holocaust ranked D…

Every year, people around the country recognize the accomplishments and impact Dr. Martin Luther King had on our society. King’s messages had an enormous effect on race relations in Delaware and across the United States; throughout and beyond the civil rights era. In this episode of Whip Count, Delaware legislators such as Rep. Kendra Johnson, Rep …

Everyday residents can play an important role in public policy. Advocacy work can be done as an individual or through a team of people with one goal in mind. In this episode of Whip Count, Rep. Debra Heffernan and Rep. Paul Baumbach shared how often they engage constituents. The two legislators also talked about proposed bills that started as an id…

When news of Covid-19 hit and restrictions were put in place to stop the spread of the virus, many people anticipated things would be back to normal by 2021. However, that's not the case. Delaware's 151st General Assembly decided to go virtual in the New Year and legislators such as Rep. Krista Griffith, Rep. Franklin Cooke, and Rep. Melissa Minor …