WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 11

AN ACT CONCURRING IN A PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE I OF THE DELAWARE CONSTITUTION RELATING TO CRIMINAL PROCEDURES.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Frank Cooke and 10 co-sponsors

Delaware advances constitutional amendment modifying criminal procedures; requires voter approval after passing legislature with broad bipartisan support.

Passed By House. Votes: 32 YES 5 NO 2 NOT VOTING 1 ABSENT 1 VACANT
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 11

Legislative bill overview

SB 11 is a constitutional amendment proposal that modifies criminal procedure provisions in Delaware's Article I. The bill passed both chambers of the Delaware legislature and now requires voter ratification to become part of the state constitution. The specific procedural changes are not detailed in the legislative summary provided.

Why is this important

Constitutional amendments represent fundamental changes to how government operates and individual rights are protected. Criminal procedure amendments directly affect due process protections, defendant rights, and how courts conduct trials—impacting both criminal justice outcomes and public safety. This type of change typically requires extraordinary legislative majorities and voter approval because of its permanent nature.

Potential points of contention

  • Lack of transparency in bill description: The actual substantive changes to criminal procedures are not specified in available materials, making public evaluation difficult
  • Procedural rights balance: Any criminal procedure amendment may shift the balance between defendant protections and prosecution efficiency, raising questions about constitutional safeguards
  • Voter understanding: Constitutional amendments often involve complex legal language that voters must understand before ratification, requiring clear public education

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.