SB 234: AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 20 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO FIRST RESPONDERS.

Official summary

Abstract published by the legislature (via Open States). Text as published by the legislature; reproduced verbatim.

This Act creates a definition of “first responder” in Chapter 31 of Title 20, pertaining to emergency management. Currently, the term is referenced, but it is not actually defined, creating potential uncertainty about who qualifies as a first responder in this context. This Act defines a first responder as a federal, state, or local law enforcement officer, firefighter, emergency medical services personnel member, hazardous materials response team member, 911 dispatcher, emergency manager, or other individual who is responsible for the protection and preservation of life or property and who is called on to respond to emergencies. This Act is a substitute for Senate Bill No. 234 and differs from Senate Bill No. 234 in that it adds a definition of “law enforcement officer” to clarify which law enforcement personnel are included in the definition of “first responder” and makes minor technical corrections to the definition of “first responder”.

Sponsors

Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Republican 3

“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.

Recent official actions

1. July 23, 2026Signed by Governor
2. July 1, 2026Passed By House. Votes: 41 YES
3. May 5, 2026Reported Out of Committee (Public Safety & Homeland Security) in House with 8 On Its Merits
4. April 22, 2026Assigned to Public Safety & Homeland Security Committee in House
5. April 21, 2026Passed By Senate. Votes: 20 YES 1 ABSENT
6. March 18, 2026Reported Out of Committee (Corrections & Public Safety) in Senate with 4 Favorable
7. March 17, 2026Adopted in lieu of the original bill SB 234, and Assigned to Corrections & Public Safety Committee in Senate