DelawareHB 171 w/ HA 1153rd General Assembly (2024–2026)HouseWALLET

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 14 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO ELECTIVE CREDIT FOR VOLUNTEERING WITH LOCAL FIRE DEPARTMENTS.

Sponsored By: Debra Heffernan (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.

Earn a high school credit by volunteering

High school students in grades 9–12 can earn one Delaware Volunteer credit. Do at least 45 hours of volunteer service each semester for two semesters. For the credit to count as a graduation elective, the principal must approve and supervise the work. Hours done in summer or school breaks also count.

Schools must promote volunteer credit options

Schools, through guidance counselors, must promote real volunteer openings to students. They must keep the information up to date. At or before class selection, schools must tell students they can earn up to one elective credit through volunteer work and may be able to volunteer with a local fire department. Counselors also explain how volunteering can help with jobs and college.

Rules, proof, and recognition for volunteer credit

Some work does not count toward the credit. You cannot count service during required school hours, political or advocacy work, or work with unlisted groups—unless it is with a local fire department. A supervisor must verify your hours on state forms, and your counselor or principal must certify them. You can earn at most one Delaware Volunteer credit. The credit appears clearly on your transcript with a state explanation, and you also get a certificate. The Department of Education may set rules to run the program.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Debra Heffernan
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

William J. Carson
Democratic • House
Daniel B. Short
Republican • House
Krista Griffith
Democratic • House
Stephanie L. Hansen
Democratic • Senate
Jeff Hilovsky
Republican • House
Gerald W. Hocker
Republican • Senate
Kyra L. Hoffner
Democratic • Senate
Russell Huxtable
Democratic • Senate
Kendra Johnson
Democratic • House
Kimberly Williams
Democratic • House
Michael F. Smith
Republican • House
Josue O Ortega
Democratic • House
Edward S. Osienski
Democratic • House
Brian Pettyjohn
Republican • Senate
Bryan Townsend
Democratic • Senate
John "Jack" Walsh
Democratic • Senate
David L. Wilson
Republican • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 61 • No: 0

Senate vote • 6/30/2025

Passed (SM required)

Yes: 21 • No: 0

House vote • 6/17/2025