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Watch a virtual Q and A on Coronavirus with Governor Carney and Secretary of Health and Social Services Dr. Odom Walker at 11am today. Watch
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Office of the Governor
JOHN CARNEY
In the 2023 State of the State address, Governor Carney committed to focusing on the issues that matter in Delawareans everyday lives:
- Access to good jobs.
- Excellent public schools.
- A safe and affordable place to live.
- And vibrant communities where folks can raise a family.
Governor Carney ended this legislative session by signing legislation and a balanced, $5.5 billion operating budget that makes sustainable investments in each of these priority items.
Investing in Education
Action and Investments
- 9% raises for classroom teachers
- Increased funding to lower pre-k student-teacher ratios
- Investing an additional $10 million to increase Purchase of Care rates to 100% of the 75th percentile of the 2021 market rate, to better support programs and children in need.
- Doubling funding going to the Early Childhood Assistance Program (ECAP) to $12.2 million, to serve more 3- and 4-year-olds, and provide programs with more resources.
- Strengthened mentoring supports by hiring an Out of School Time Officer and dedicating funding to support the School Mentoring and Literacy Task Force’s recommendations
Protecting Delaware’s Natural Heritage
Legislative Action
- Passed the Climate Solutions Act to reduce greenhouse emissions
- Create School Bus Program
- Pass legislation to create an Electric Vehicle Rebate Program
Budget Investments
- Allocate $31.8 million to improve Delaware’s drainage, drinking water, and water resources
- Dedicate $7.5 million to protect shorelines and beaches
- Fund the Tree for Every Delawarean Initiative
Keeping Delaware’s Roadways Safe
Legislative Action
- Curbs speeding and reckless driving
- Expand “Move Over” protections
- Protect motorcyclists
- Strengthen child safety seat requirements
- Enable green lights on snow plows to increase visibility
Community Safety and Security
Legislative Action
- Preventing gun violence by banning guns at schools and polling places
- Pass legislation to curb the use of xylazine
Safe and Affordable Housing
Legislative Action
- Protects a tenants right to counsel in eviction proceedings
Budget Investments
- The Fiscal Year 24 budget is the largest housing investment in Delaware history, and strengthens initiatives including:
- Catalyst Fund
- Accelerator Fund
- Market Pressure Relief Fund
- Preservation Fund
Investing in the Economy of the Future
Legislative Action
- Pass legislation to strengthen Delaware’s ability to attract and grow businesses
- Continue key investments in economic development programs
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