Whip Count

House Majority Leader Kerri Evelyn Harris sits down with Sheila Bravo, CEO of the Delaware Alliance for Nonprofit Advancement (DANA), to discuss the challenges facing nonprofits amid federal budget cuts.

In January 2025, hundreds of residents were hit with dramatic increases in their energy bills. For the past several weeks, lawmakers have been working on solutions to reduce energy costs and provide relief to families. In this episode of Whip Count, Representatives Debra Heffernan and Frank Burns discuss the legislation introduced by House Democrats and share how they are actively working to find solutions that will provide relief.

In celebration of LGTBQ+ Pride Month, hear from Rep. Eric Morrison as we dive deep into Pride! Whether you've already found your community or you're still looking for one, let the DEHouseDems family speak to you

On this episode of Whip Count, in honor of Women's History Month, hear from House Majority Leadership as they discuss their journey in life and the lessons they learned along the way. 

On this episode of Whip Count, Speaker Valerie Longhurst along with Alisa Schneidman, Author of the House of Weird, and Patricia May board member from the Delaware Association for Children of Alcohol and Marijuana Dependency discuss the impact and effects of alcoholism on individuals and the family dynamic. Additionally, they discuss the importance of House Current Resolution 83 which designates February 11th to 17th as “Children of Alcoholics Week”, and urges discussions around the effects of alcoholism. The episode focuses on how to destigmatize discussions around alcoholism and how to break the generational cycle of alcoholism. Author Alisa Schneidman shares the inspiration behind her book House of Weird, and guests discuss their personal stories relating to alcoholism in their families and growing up as a child of an alcoholic.

Before the 152nd General Assembly officially kicked off, we introduced the five new members of our caucus and their plans to make an impact in Legislative Hall. In part two of our freshmen series, we spoke to Rep. Sophie Phillips about her first legislative session and the surprise lessons she learned along the way. 

On the latest episode of Whip Count, Rep. Madinah Wilson-Anton and environmental activist Anissa Cartagena join us to discuss HB 220, also known as Delaware's Green Amendment. This proposed amendment would enshrine residents' right to a clean and healthy environment in the Delaware Constitution and make it clear that all branches, agencies and political subdivisions of the state would serve as trustee of Delaware's natural resources and be responsible for conserving, protecting, and maintaining them.

Before the 152nd General Assembly officially kicked off, we introduced the five new members of our caucus and their plans to make an impact in Legislative Hall.    On this new series, we'll catch up with these history-making members as they reflect on their first legislative session and the surprising lessons they've learned along the way. This week, we sat down with Rep. Cyndie Romer to hear her perspective on her first year in the legislature.   

In spring 2023, Gov. Carney, DelDOT, the Delaware Dept. of Safety and Homeland Security, and members of the General Assembly introduced a package of bills designed to improve safety on Delaware's roadways. This week's podcast episode of Whip Count highlights Representative Frank Cooke's HB 120 and how this bill will assist law enforcement in cracking down on reckless driving in Delaware.

On this episode of Whip Count, Rep. Cyndie Romer joins us to explain her HB 186, a measure that would reduce the number of children placed on the sex offender registry by empowering judges, in consultation with child psychologists and case workers, to decide whether a child should be included on the Registry. Wilmington resident Anthony Gibbs, who understands firsthand the harsh reality of being on the sexual offender registry as a youth, also joined us to discuss the negative unintended consequences that follow many of these kids into adulthood.

On this episode of Whip Count, we're joined by Rep. Debra Heffernan, Rep. Sophie Phillips and Emily Knearl from the Nature Conservancy to talk about the Delaware Climate Solutions Act, a bold step toward tackling Climate Change here in the First State.

On this episode, Rep. Madinah Wilson-Anton joins us to discuss her HB 62, legislation requiring properties to be assessed every five years. This would allow the state to be fairer in its taxation structure, ensuring that property owners finally have parity. You can find additional reassessment resources here: New Castle County: https://bit.ly/3Irf7yn Kent County: https://bit.ly/43ivB3Q Sussex County: https://bit.ly/3OqTkeh

On this episode of Whip Count, Rep. Paul Baumbach discusses measures that would put money in the pockets of working Delawareans by increasing the standard deduction and refundable Earned Income Tax Credit.

Recovery housing is an integral part of the recovery journey, providing transitional homes in a substance-free, supportive environment. However, here in Delaware, the lack of standards and regulations for these homes has created difficult and sometimes dangerous situations for individuals recovering from addiction and their families. On this episode of Whip Count, we talked to Rep. Kerri Evelyn Harris about her new bill, the  Matthew D. Klosowski Act, which would create standards for recovery homes to become certified. Matthew's mother, Marybeth Cichocki also joined us to discuss her firsthand and tragic experience with an unregulated recovery home and how that experience led her to advocate for change.

Just before we gaveled out for the February Joint Finance Committee break, the House commemorated Holocaust Remembrance Day with a resolution and an address from special guest David Meluskey of the World Jewish Congress. This episode of Whip Count features audio from that address as well as a conversation with all three Jewish members of the House, Rep. Debra Heffernan, Rep. Sophie Phillips, and Rep. Jeff Spiegelman as they reflect on what Holocaust Remembrance Day means to them. 

Who are the new members in the House? On this episode of Whip Count we introduce you to Representatives Kerri Evelyn Harris, DeShanna Neal, Sophie Phillips, Cyndie Romer, and Stell Parker Selby. The newcomers  were recently sworn in at the state capitol, as the 152nd Delaware General Assembly launched its new session.    For these incoming lawmakers, it's the beginning of a brand new road to rebuilding their communities, and working on critical issues that impact the entire state.    What can you expect? Tune in now to hear what everyone had to say including their answers to some fun questions. 

Delaware legislators continue work on criminal justice reform through legislation that would ensure clear and concise quarterly reports of an inmate's behavior.  Under Rep. Larry Lambert's HB 394, the Delaware Department of Correction would be required to provide copies of quarterly reports of good time credit earned or forfeited.  Tune in to hear from the person who inspired the  bill and legislators who support it. 

Recognizing the ongoing challenges facing mothers and newborns, Rep. Melissa Minor-Brown introduces us to the 2022 Delaware Momnibus, a series of several bills, addressing issues impacting pregnant and postpartum persons and decreasing infant mortality. Minor-Brown explains how lawmakers and organizations are working together to tackle child and maternal mortality. She also talks about support for doulas, help for incarcerated pregnant persons, and incentives for new parents.  Collectively, support as well as the series of  bills would improve healthy outcomes for all families and infants throughout Delaware. Tune in now.

This week on Whip Count: The 2022 Delaware Relief Rebate explained, economic policies to help Delawareans become more resilient to inflation, and maintaining a strong and fair economy in the First State House Majority leader Valerie Longhurst provides listeners with an in-depth explanation of the 2022 Delaware Relief Rebate and gives us a look into the bipartisan brainstorming sessions that lead to HB 360, historic legislation that would enable one-time direct payments of $300 to Delaware resident taxpayers. Rep. Paul Baumbach and Rep. Ed Osienski also joined us this week to discuss policies they've championed over the years that aim to economically empower the most vulnerable in our society and ensure every Delawarean has a fair shot at earning a decent living.

Delaware kids are dealing with an unprecedented mental health crisis, and to address it, Rep. Valerie Longhurst is encouraging more people to normalize conversations around mental illness so more students understand they are never alone.  Annie Slease of the National Alliance on Mental Illness in Delaware is committed to helping students as well by gaining access to the mental health resources they need to succeed.  Learn how you can be a part of the mental health awareness effort and support legislation such as House Bill 301, which would establish a statewide mental health educational curriculum for K-12 students.

In February, lawmakers announced the formation of the Delaware Legislative Women's Caucus, a bipartisan and bicameral coalition of legislators focused on advancing the shared interests of women. In this episode of Whip Count, the co-chairs of the caucus, Rep. Valerie Longhurst and Sen. Marie Pinkney, discuss the importance of coming together to advocate for change and the caucus's plan to address gender inequities in all facets of our society. 

Approximately 5,000 Delaware children lack access to medical coverage due to their immigration status. For these children, a simple trip to the doctor for an illness or to get vaccinated is not a financially viable option. In this episode, Rep. Krista Griffith, Sen. Sarah McBride, and Yvette Santiago of Nemours discuss a new proposal that would ensure all Delaware children have access to the medical care they need when they need it. The Cover All Delaware Children Act would establish a state-run medical coverage program for children who are not otherwise covered, including children who are not documented.

People who have been incarcerated often encounter challenges that are very difficult to overcome, which makes it hard for them to build a stable future.  Unfortunately, there is no “quick-fix” solution to employment, education, and entrepreneurship for formerly incarcerated people. However, legislation could help reduce a person's chances of relapsing into criminal behavior through Rep. Melissa Minor-Brown's Second Chances proposal.  Haneef Salaam of the ACLU also weighed in with his personal experiences in the criminal justice system to highlight the importance of second chances for all.  Tune in now.

In Gov. John Carney ‘s 2022 State of the State address, he expressed commitment to invest in schools, jobs, economic development, broadband access, and more.  Carney also highlighted some challenges during the pandemic but remained hopeful along with Rep. Krista Griffith, Rep. Deb Hefferenan, Rep. Ed Osienski, Rep. Melissa Minor-Brown, and Sen. Sarah McBride who all reacted to the governor's speech.  Tune in now to listen to reaction and speech highlights. 

Representative Larry Lambert is committed to educating people about the federal Justice 40 Initiative, which ensures 40 percent of federal infrastructure funds around climate change, green energy and economic development go toward disadvantaged communities statewide.  Learn how the initiative would help propel Delaware toward environmental justice and how you can get involved, addressing the need to have fair treatment where you live, work, and play.

The historical memories of the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Justice hit too close home for Rep. Stephanie T. Bolden who shares personal reflections and what community members can continue to do, creating more hope and opportunity rooted in Dr. Martin Luther King's dream.  MLK Day allows all people, as individuals and in organizations, to reflect on how they live out the values that our nation honors.  Dr. King's struggle for justice and the dangers it entailed, serves as a reminder that the work of public servants always required courage and strength to move a dream forward.

In October, many people wear purple for domestic violence victims and survivors. As advocates come together to raise awareness and educate people on red flags, trauma, and the paralyzing fear that mental or physical abuse can have on a person, it's also important to highlight resources and efforts put in place to help.  On this episode of Whip Count, Rep. Krista Griffith and Lori Sitler of Child, Inc. share what options are available in Delaware as well as discuss legislation that would help individuals in abusive, controlling, or violent situations.  Take a listen and visit https://dvcc.delaware.gov/24-hour-hotline-numbers/ for a list of numbers to call if you are seeking refuge or know someone who needs assistance. 

A quality education lays the foundation of a successful future, giving kids the tools and resources they need to reach their goals. On this week's episode of Whip Count, House Education Committee Chair Rep. Kim Williams and Vice-Chair Nnamdi Chukwuocha, discuss policy solutions for improving Delaware's schools and creating a better and more equitable education system for all students, from kindergarteners to adults looking to develop new professional skills. Tune in to learn more about the many education-related bills passed by the 151st General Assembly and their tangible effects on students, parents, and educators.

Weeks ago, Hurricane Ida brought record-breaking and catastrophic flooding to our region, causing millions of dollars in damages.  As so-called 100-year weather events like Ida become more and more commonplace in Delaware, the lowest-lying state in the nation, lawmakers are working to mitigate the effects of climate change and keep communities healthy by enacting common-sense environmental policies and investing in critical infrastructure. In this episode, Rep. Eric Morrison and Natural Resources Committee Chair Rep. Debra Heffernan reflect on a few key environmental bills passed by the 151st General Assembly and discuss strategies for addressing environmental concerns in Delaware. 

Rep. Kendra Johnson and Rep. Sherry Dorsey Walker reflect on historic advances to tackle systemic racial injustice in Delaware.  In June 2020, the Delaware Legislative Black Caucus unveiled an agenda, packed with bills, addressing police accountability and transparency as well as equal rights and protections. A year later, lawmakers made great strides and accomplished a lot, from requiring police to use body-worn cameras to prohibiting the publication of juvenile mugshots.  Tune in and learn more about important legislation that will protect and improve the quality of life for people statewide.   

On Thursday, June 17, lawmakers and advocates came together for a Pride Month rally to announce an historic constitutional amendment that would protect the rights of members of the LGBTQ+ and disability communities. HB 199 from House Majority Leader Valerie Longhurst and Sen. Sarah McBride would make it clear that all Delawareans are equal regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or disabilities.  The rally was the perfect place of support where people shared powerful stories that you can hear exclusively on this week's episode of Whip Count. Take a listen.

Delaware's landmark SEED and INSPIRE scholarship programs have allowed thousands of residents to further their education and develop important skills without the financial burden that often accompanies higher education. Under new legislation proposed by Democratic lawmakers, these programs could be expanded further, making certain Delaware colleges tuition-free for eligible students. Senate Bill 12 sponsored by Sen Nicole Poore and Rep. Longhurst would expand Delaware's landmark Student Excellence Equals Degree program, or SEED, which provides scholarship funding to recent high school graduates attending Delaware Tech. Under this new legislation, adults and others previously excluded from this program would be included in the SEED. SB 95, sponsored by Sen Paradee and Rep. Bolden, would increase Delaware's INSPIRE program, which provides scholarship funding to Delaware State students meeting certain criteria. With this expansion, their full tuition would be covered.  On this episode, we'll hear more about these scholarships and what they mean for Delaware's workforce and residents from INSPIRE sponsor Stephanie Bolden and Del Tech President Mark Brainard.

Delaware workers either struggle to balance work, family and health care needs because they don't have access to unpaid leave. Saving vacation and sick time to make sure a paycheck isn't missed is also a common reality for some families.  The Healthy Delaware Families Act, a paid-leave policy would allow workers in the state to have 12 weeks off for qualifying life events including emergencies that arise.  Sponsored by Sen. Sarah McBride and Rep. Debra Heffernan, SB 1 would change the state's business landscape. Learn more about the bill as well as hear from a local teacher who shared a personal story about her support.  That's the big topic on this episode of Whip Count. 

When it comes to campaigning, it's a job that isn't family friendly for candidates. In Delaware, people who are interested in running for a political seat can not legally draw from their funds to take care of child care expenses.  HB 90 would change that, acting as an incentive for young mothers and fathers who are committed to making a difference in their communities.  This topic hits too close to home for Rep. Sean Lynn, Rep. Rae Moore and Sen. Kyle Evans Gay who came together to help explain the bill and share their personal stories from the campaign trail.     

Saving for retirement is becoming an increasingly difficult dilemma for workers. In Delaware, as many as 200,000 employees lack access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan.   To address this growing issue, Rep. Larry Lambert has worked with our State Treasurer to introduce the Delaware EARNS program. This act would create a state-sponsored savings plan, funded by employees, empowered by employers, and overseen by the State.   On this episode, Rep. Lambert and State Treasurer Colleen Davis describe the Delaware EARNS Act and its benefits for employees and businesses alike. 

Delaware lawmakers consider legislation that would implement a statewide body-worn camera program. Sponsored by Rep. Sherry Dorsey Walker, HB 195 would require police officers to wear a body-worn camera. The mandate would also require some employees of the Department of Correction and Department of Services for Children, Youth, and Their Families to use body cameras.  Tune in and get up close with Rep. Dorsey Walker, Haneef Salaam of the ACLU and University of Delaware Police Chief Pat Ogden as they discuss accountability, transparency and community trust.

Rep. David Bentz joins leaders from Christiana Care Health System to discuss expanding telehealth services for Delawareans through House Bill 160. According to those who support the proposed piece of legislation, all Delawareans deserve high-quality, affordable health care. Find out if health care professionals will still be able to meet the needs of patients who don't have access to internet, and how the demand for telehealth services exploded during the pandemic. 

Last week, the House passed Rep. Paul Baumbach's House Bill 16, providing low-income individuals financial relief on their income taxes.    House Bill 16 reforms the earned-income tax credit in Delaware so families can receive a few more dollars to help with the everyday financial pressures, from daycare to mortgage payments.   Tax legislation can be as complicated as it is tedious, so to help explain the Earned Income Tax Credit and its benefits for thousands of Delawareans,  we’ll hear from bill sponsor Rep. Paul Baumbach and Janice Barlow of KIDS Count Delaware.

Environmental issues affect our lives every day, whether it's flooding on our roadways or the energy used to power our homes. We’re only a few months into the 2021 session, and lawmakers have already introduced several pieces of legislation aimed at addressing issues such as sustainable development and pollution, making it clear that addressing environmental challenges is a priority for the 151st General Assembly.     On this episode, Dustyn Thompson of the Delaware Sierra Club, House Natural Resources Committee Chair Rep. Debra Heffernan, and Senate Environment and Energy Committee Chair Sen. Stephanie Hansen discuss environmental bills being considered in the 151st General Assembly and strategies for addressing environmental concerns in Delaware.

Lawmakers in Delaware have introduced legislation that would legalize and regulate recreational marijuana for adult users, a measure supported by 60% of Delawareans. The Delaware Marijuana Control Act would authorize the cultivation, sale and possession of marijuana, while establishing a new industry with good-paying jobs in the First State.   On this episode of Whip Count, lead bill sponsor Rep. Ed Osienski, attorney Adam Windett, and activist Zoe Patchell address the concerns and economic benefits of legalizing marijuana, and discuss the social injustices tied to the prohibition of cannabis.   Read more about The Delaware Marijuana Control Act here: bit.ly/DEHB150 

Legislation designed to legally protect all people from hair discrimination could become law if the Delaware House advances SB 32.  Rep. Kendra Johnson, Rep. Melissa Minor-Brown, and Rep. Nnamdi Chukwuocha came together to discuss the CROWN Act as well as the pressure to alter natural hair textures or change hairstyles in the African American community. Adjoa B. Asamoah, a political strategist leading advocacy efforts across the country also joined the conversation.  Learn more about the CROWN Act, what it means and how it will impact other races as well. 

Elementary schoolchildren carry trauma and life experiences with them that immensely impact their school and home situations, and without access to mental health resources, these issues can spiral into full-blown crises.   In Delaware, one school counselor may be responsible for 500 children, stretching their time incredibly thin and almost guaranteeing some children fall through the cracks. Lawmakers and advocates are fighting to ensure students in elementary schools have access to the resources they need with House Bill 100, which provides sustained funding for school-based mental health professionals such as School Counselors, School Psychologists and School Social Workers.   In this episode, we talked with the sponsors of this bill, Rep. Valerie Longhurst and Sen. Marie Pinkney. We also heard from school-based mental health professionals Emily Klein, Brandon Townsend, and Dawn Hall, and a parent, Chris Locke, who discussed the very real need for increased mental health funding in our schools.

The Delaware legislature typically convenes for session about 45 days a year, however, the job of local legislators goes far beyond passing legislation.  Our local “part-time” lawmakers stay busy 365 days a year as they help constituents, meet with organizations and state agencies, and volunteer in their communities.    Currently, the legislature is taking a short break from session while the Joint Finance Committee works on our state’s 2022 budget. This week we caught up with Rep. Larry Lambert,  Rep. Rae Moore, and Rep. Krista Griffith and learned about what they’ve been up to over the past month.   

Black History Month may kick off in February but it doesn't end there. It's an opportunity to commemorate the achievements of African Americans and learn about men and women who have made great contributions across the world.Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester and Rep. Nnamdi Chukwuocha share personal reflections on Black History Month, highlighting local people including establishments that are close to their hearts. 

Heart disease continues to be one of the greatest health threats to men and women across the globe. This information is highlighted annually during February, American Heart Month to encourage people to adopt healthier lifestyles. In Delaware, Rep. Melissa Minor-Brown, a nurse and educator shared risk factors, tips, and debunked a popular myth. Also, Delaware's Dr. Velma Scantlebury, the first African American female Transplant Surgeon in the United States echoed why it's important to commit to a healthy lifestyle year round. Finally, Michelle Taylor, president of the United Way of Delaware weighed in with a personal experience that changed her life forever.  

In the last several years, House Democrats have proposed pieces of legislation aimed at addressing education issues such as lack of mental health resources in schools, inadequate special education funding, and teacher retention. This week, we’ll hear from a few of the lawmakers leading the charge on education equity and fighting to ensure each student gets the education they deserve. Rep. Nnamdi Chukwuocha, Rep. Valerie Longhurst, Rep. Kim Williams, and Rep. Rae Moore discuss a few of the proposals they’re working on, and Annie Slease of NAMI Delaware weighs in on the importance of providing students with the resources they need to succeed.

Enjoy this bonus episode of Whip Count with the full audio of Governor John Carney's 2021 State of the State Address!

To honor International Holocaust Remembrance Day, we're highlighting Holocaust survivor Ann Jaffe's story. In 2020, as Delaware lawmakers prepared to vote on a measure that would mandate Holocaust education for students in grades 6-12, Ann Jaffe addressed the General Assembly. Ann spoke about her experience surviving under the Nazi regime and highlighted the importance of ensuring all young people are educated on the horrors of the Holocaust and other genocides. This episode features her entire unedited speech. 

In 2020, the Delaware General Assembly passed legislation that requires schools to implement a curriculum on the Holocaust and genocide for students in grades 6-12, making Delaware the 15th state to enact such legislation. This legislation comes not a moment too soon, as a 2020 national survey assessing student's knowledge of the Holocaust ranked Delaware 41st when it comes to Holocaust education. In this episode, two individuals who were instrumental in passing Holocaust education legislation, Rep. Debra Heffernan and Steve Gonzer of the Halina Wind Preston Holocaust Education Committee, discuss the decades of work leading up to this bill and the importance of educating young adults on tolerance and empathy in an age of polarization and misinformation.

Every year, people around the country recognize the accomplishments and impact Dr. Martin Luther King had on our society.King’s messages had an enormous effect on race relations in Delaware and across the United States; throughout and beyond the civil rights era. In this episode of Whip Count, Delaware legislators such as Rep. Kendra Johnson, Rep Sherry Dorsey Walker, Rep. Rae Moore and Rep. Larry Lambert talk about Dr. King’s activism and share excerpts of his speeches that keep them motivated in their daily public service work. 

Everyday residents can play an important role in public policy. Advocacy work can be done as an individual or through a team of people with one goal in mind.In this episode of Whip Count, Rep. Debra Heffernan and Rep. Paul Baumbach shared how often they engage constituents. The two legislators also talked about proposed bills that started as an idea from people they represent. The legislative process has certainly caught the attention of Samtra Devard who advocated for more speech therapists in the state and Javonne Rich of the American Civil Liberties Union. Find out what motivates them to push for legislative change and how you can do the same.