AN ACT PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE V OF THE DELAWARE CONSTITUTION RELATING TO ELECTIONS AND VOTING.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Kerri Harris and 9 co-sponsors

Delaware HB 430 would amend Article V to fundamentally change the constitutional framework for elections and voting, requiring voter approval to take effect.

Passed By Senate. Votes: 15 YES 6 NO

Overview

HB 430 (Session 153, Delaware) proposes an amendment to Article V of the Delaware Constitution regarding elections and voting. The bill was introduced and assigned to the Administration Committee in the House on May 19, 2026. It lists six sponsors/co-sponsors: Dave Wilson, Dave Sokola, Kerri Harris, Claire Snyder-Hall, Eric Morrison, and Josue Ortega.

Purpose and Intent

The bill seeks to alter or add constitutional provisions related to how elections are conducted in Delaware. As a constitutional amendment, it would require passage by both chambers of the General Assembly and voter ratification in a statewide referendum.

The precise substantive changes to election administration, voter eligibility, ballot access, or related procedures would be defined in the amendment language proposed by HB 430. The bill’s title indicates a focus on elections and voting, likely addressing foundational rules or protections within Article V.

Key Provisions and Changes (What the bill would change)

Amend Article V of the Delaware Constitution: The core action is to modify the constitutional framework governing elections and voting. Specific changes could include:

Definitions of who may vote (voter eligibility) and how votes are cast and counted.
Either expansion or restriction of voting rights, or the establishment of new election administration standards.
Procedures for elections, including scheduling, ballot design, or certification processes.

Because the text of the amendment is not provided in the summary, the exact provisions, thresholds, timelines, and enforcement mechanisms remain to be specified in the bill’s formal constitutional language.

Who/what would be affected

Voters in Delaware: Any changes to voting eligibility, ballot access, or voting procedures would directly impact current and future voters.

State and local election administrators: Administration of elections, compliance with constitutional requirements, and potential changes to election timelines and certification processes.

Legislative and judicial branches: Any constitutional amendments require passage by the General Assembly and statewide voter approval; judicial interpretation may follow for implementation.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

Introduction and Committee Assignment: May 19, 2026, assigned to the Administration Committee in the House.

Next steps likely required:

Committee review and potential amendments.
Floor votes in the House and Senate (if the bill advances).
Referral to the voters for a statewide referendum to ratify the constitutional amendment.
If approved by voters, incorporation into the Delaware Constitution.

Notable Considerations for Readers

As a constitutional amendment, HB 430 signals a fundamental change rather than a standard statute amendment; it would require broad consensus and voter approval to take effect.

The bill’s impact will hinge on the precise text of the proposed constitutional changes, including any grandparenting provisions for current elections, transition timelines, and the scope of authority granted or constrained to state or local election officials.

If you can provide the exact text of the proposed amendment or sponsor statements outlining the goals, I can tailor this summary to reflect the specific provisions and anticipated policy impact in greater detail.