DOVER, Del.- The 152nd General Assembly resumed its session at Legislative Hall Tuesday, starting its second half with the induction of a new member in the House and the passage of two bills by the Senate.
State Rep. Valerie Jones Giltner (R-Georgetown) took the oath of office, succeeding former Rep. Ruth Briggs King, who announced her resignation in November. Giltner's new role renders her the singular Republican woman in the legislative body.
Fellow Representative Tim Dukes (R-Laurel) officiated the swearing-in ceremony, expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to preside over the event.
The Senate unanimously passed Senate Bills 187 and 188 and Senate Concurrent Resolution 103.
SB 187 looks to refine how educators' salaries are calculated, ensuring that teachers are fairly compensated based on their advanced degrees acquired before their employment. SB 188 endorses the Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact (ITMC), spanning 12 states. This endorsement is set to simplify the process of transferring teaching licenses across state lines.
Senator Russ Huxtable (D-Rehoboth/Lewes) expressed his backing for these bills, aiming to alleviate the teacher shortage across Delaware.
SCR103 establishes the Delaware Aquaculture Task Force.
Sen. Huxtable also mentioned his focus on healthcare and managing the burgeoning population in Sussex County this leg of the session.
Affordable housing emerged as a critical concern for all lawmakers interviewed. Sen. Huxtable highlighted its wide-ranging impact on education and healthcare systems, echoing sentiments shared by Rep. Dukes, who referred to the issue as one of the most challenging aspects faced by legislators.
Giltner echoed the sentiment, acknowledging affordable housing as a top priority for Delaware. Recent discussions involving lawmakers, housing agencies, and non-profits aimed to tackle this pressing issue.
The House is set to deliberate on Senate Bill 2, a contentious proposal concerning the issuance of permits for handgun purchases, in the upcoming sessions.