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HB 272

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 11 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO CRIMES AGAINST PUBLIC ORDER.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Mara Gorman and 10 co-sponsors

Delaware HB 272 modifies state criminal code provisions on public order crimes; awaiting committee review of specific amendments and impacts on law enforcement and civil liberties.

Assigned to Judiciary Committee in Senate
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Bill Summary · HB 272

Legislative bill overview

HB 272 amends Delaware's criminal code (Title 11) regarding crimes against public order. The bill was recently introduced and assigned to the House Judiciary Committee but specific amendments are not detailed in the available information. Without access to the bill's actual text, the precise nature of the changes cannot be determined.

Why is this important

Crimes against public order statutes affect how law enforcement addresses disruptive conduct, protests, disturbing the peace, and similar offenses. Modifications to these laws can significantly impact civil liberties, public assembly rights, and police enforcement discretion, making this area of criminal law consequential for both public safety and individual freedoms.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition clarity: Changes to what constitutes "crimes against public order" may either expand or restrict law enforcement authority, raising concerns about vagueness or overreach depending on the direction
  • Civil liberties balance: Amendments could affect the right to peaceful assembly and protest, creating tension between maintaining public order and protecting First Amendment-adjacent activities
  • Enforcement disparities: Modifications may create new opportunities for unequal enforcement across different communities or demographic groups

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

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