DelawareSB 153153rd General Assembly (2024–2026)SenateWALLET

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 14 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO THE INTERAGENCY RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE.

Sponsored By: S. Elizabeth Lockman (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.

Early year funds for children's programs

Programs funded under this law get 20% of last year’s allocation at the start of each fiscal year to keep services going. Programs must submit proposals to the committee, and the committee may change funding after review. The Budget Director and Controller General can move existing funds among member departments that serve these children, but only if the sending department’s Secretary agrees. This helps avoid service gaps without raising the total budget.

More grants and funding guidance for kids

The committee can apply for and allocate grants from sources like the federal Child Care Block Grant, Head Start, and other listed funds. It advises how state-controlled funds for eligible children under Chapter 30 are used. It does not advise on unit funding for children with disabilities. The committee also coordinates resources and planning across agencies and partners to strengthen Delaware’s early childhood system and support the Early Childhood Council.

Staff and yearly support for early childhood committee

The Department of Education’s Early Childhood Support team staffs the committee, with help from the Lieutenant Governor’s office. The team includes at least two Education Specialists and a clerical support role. Health and Social Services and Services for Children, Youth and Their Families must fund, by July each fiscal year, the costs for one Education Specialist and clerical support. This keeps coordination work running for Delaware’s early childhood programs.

New leadership for early childhood committee

The Lieutenant Governor now chairs Delaware’s early childhood committee. New nonvoting members join: one House member (named by the Speaker), one Senator (named by the President Pro Tempore), the Early Childhood Council chair, and the Extended Learning Subcommittee chair. Each year by April 15, the committee sends a report to the Governor and legislative leaders. The report explains its work and gives advice on whether and how to keep these activities in law.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

S. Elizabeth Lockman
Democratic • Senate

Cosponsors

Kimberly Williams
Democratic • House
Kamela T Smith
Democratic • House
Larry Lambert
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 57 • No: 0

House vote • 6/30/2025

Passed (SM required)

Yes: 39 • No: 0

Senate vote • 6/10/2025