Sen. Trey Paradee

Maddy summaryHCR 16 is a symbolic resolution designating March 2025 as "Multiple Sclerosis Month" in Delaware. It does not create new laws or allocate funds but formally recognizes the month to raise awareness about multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic nervous system disease affecting an estimated 2.3 million people worldwide. The resolution calls on Delaware residents to learn about MS and support those diagnosed with the condition. This is a ceremonial gesture with no direct policy impact, aligning with national MS Awareness Month efforts.

This Concurrent Resolution requests the Council of the Corporation Law Section of the Delaware State Bar Association prepare a report of recommendations for legislative action regarding awards of attorney’s fees in certain corporate litigation cases.

After enactment of Senate Substitute No. 1 to Senate Bill No. 174 of the 152nd General Assembly (Chapter 446 of Volume 84 of the Laws of Delaware), it was discovered that Senate Substitute No. 1 to Senate Bill No. 174 would, if implemented, jeopardize the qualified federal tax status of the Delaware Public Employees Retirement System by giving individuals who are Justices of the Peace, Commissioners of the Superior Court, Family Court, and Court of Common Pleas (“Commissioners”), and Magistrates in Chancery (“Magistrates”), as of the effective date, an election to participate in the Judicial Pension Plan at a different rate of pre-tax contribution than presently required for those individuals under the State Employees’ Pension Plan (3% or 5%, depending on start date). Based on this information, the Board of Pension Trustees voted unanimously on December 10, 2024, to delay implementation of Senate Substitute No. 1 for Senate Bill No. 174. This Act does the following: (1) Revises § 5601 and 5605 of Title 29 to allow for Justices of the Peace, Commissioners, and Magistrates who first qualify for the State Judicial Pension Plan on the effective date of this Act to elect to remain in the State Employees’ Pension Plan or participate in the State Judicial Pension Plan at the same pre-tax rate each individual was contributing under the State Employees’ Pension Plan (3% or 5%). (2) Sets the mandatory pre-tax contribution rate of any subsequently appointed State judicial officer at 5%. Any Justice of the Peace, Commissioner, or Magistrate as of the effective date who is appointed to a new position within the state judiciary after the effective date of this Act will also be subject to the mandatory 5% contribution rate. (3) Delays the effective date of Senate Substitute No. 1 for Senate Bill No. 174 until January 26, 2025, the effective date of this Act.

This Concurrent Resolution requests an advisory opinion of the Justices of the Delaware Supreme Court regarding whether a Delaware Governor can withdraw nominations submitted by the preceding Governor that otherwise are properly before the State Senate.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution (HR 9) symbolically recognizes January 1, 2025, as Haitian Independence Day in Delaware. It does not create new laws or affect any policies; instead, it formally acknowledges Haiti's 1804 independence from France and celebrates the contributions of Delaware's Haitian community (0.5% of the population). The resolution encourages community reflection on Haiti's historical significance as the first independent Black-led nation and its global impact on freedom movements. As a procedural resolution, it has no binding effect but serves as a ceremonial observance.

This Concurrent Resolution honors and recognizes the leadership and achievements of African Americans and urges the celebration of Black History Month.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates January 2025 as "National Mentoring Month" in Delaware, symbolically recognizing the value of mentoring programs. It does not create new laws, allocate funding, or change existing programs - it simply encourages Delawareans to support mentoring efforts that benefit youth. The bill cites research showing mentoring improves youth mental health, academic performance, and life skills, particularly for vulnerable groups like foster youth. As a symbolic gesture, it directly affects all Delaware residents by urging community engagement with mentoring initiatives, though it has no binding policy impact. The resolution was introduced by Senator Lockman and passed unanimously by both legislative chambers in early 2025.

This resolution recognizes the Easterseals/CAI Volleyball Challenge occurring March 8 at University of Delaware Carpenter Sports Building, an event that raises funds for an organization providing services and support to Delawareans with disabilities and senior citizens and their families.

Maddy summaryThis House Concurrent Resolution (HCR 5) designates January 23, 2025, as "Maternal Health Awareness Day" in Delaware. It is a symbolic resolution raising public and professional awareness about maternal health issues, including preventable pregnancy-related deaths and racial disparities. The resolution does not create new laws, funding, or programs - it simply establishes a designated day to highlight existing initiatives like maternal safety bundles and doulas, and to encourage future efforts in maternal care. The bill affects Delaware residents generally by promoting awareness of maternal health challenges.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Concurrent Resolution designates January 9, 2025, as "Law Enforcement Appreciation Day" in Delaware. It symbolically honors Delaware law enforcement officers for their service without creating new policies, requirements, or funding. The resolution expresses legislative gratitude for officers' dedication to community safety and public protection. As a ceremonial measure, it has no direct legal or financial impact on residents or agencies.