Delaware Voting Rights Coalition Statement on Initial Passage of Senate Bill 2 and Senate Bill 3

"Today, the Delaware House of Representatives took a meaningful step toward expanding access to the ballot for Delaware voters by passing Senate Substitute 1 for Senate Bill 2 (SS 1 for SB 2), legislation that will guarantee that early in-person voting is safeguarded, and Senate Substitute 1 for Senate Bill 3 with House Amendment 1 (SS 1 for SB 3 w/ HA 1), legislation that ensures any eligible voter can cast an absentee ballot.

Our coalition firmly believes that one thing is at the very core of our democracy: choice. SS 1 for SB 2 and SS 1 for SB 3 w/ HA 1 ensure that Delaware voters can decide what method of casting their ballot — early, absentee, or on Election Day — best fits their individual needs. Together, these bills enhance Delaware's election integrity and security, increase voter participation, and make our elections more accessible and representative of our entire state.

We are grateful to the bills’ primary sponsor, Senator Darius Brown, as well as additional sponsors and co-sponsors for their commitment to seeing these bills through two consecutive legislative sessions. We also extend our sincere thanks to legislators from both sides of the aisle, who chose to support policies that put Delaware voters first.

We remain committed to advocating for other key voting rights bills during this legislative session, including House Bill 88, legislation that removes constitutional barriers which currently prevent same-day voter registration, and House Bill 180, legislation that restores voting rights for people who have served their sentences for a felony.

Our work doesn’t end here. Our coalition will continue to push for policies that remedy barriers to the ballot box — including reforms like permanent absentee voting, which was disappointingly amended out of SS 1 for SB 3 w/ HA 1 despite being a critical component for increasing turnout among populations like voters with disabilities.

We look forward to continuing to work alongside state legislators to ensure the full passage of these constitutional amendments in 2027."