WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 365

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 29 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE DELAWARE INDIGENOUS AFFAIRS COMMISSION.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Mara Gorman and 15 co-sponsors

Establishes the Delaware Indigenous Affairs Commission to study, coordinate, and advise on Indigenous-related policies and programs in state government.

Passed By Senate. Votes: 20 YES 1 ABSENT
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 365

Summary of HB 365 (Session 153, Delaware)

Purpose and intent

HB 365 proposes to amend Title 29 of the Delaware Code to establish the Delaware Indigenous Affairs Commission. The bill creates a formal body tasked with addressing Indigenous affairs within the state, outlining its purpose, governance, and operations. The underlying aim is to recognize and coordinate Indigenous-related matters, policies, and programs at the state level.

Key provisions and changes

While the exact text of HB 365 is not provided in the summary, typical elements for establishing a state Indigenous Affairs Commission would likely include:

  • Creation of the Delaware Indigenous Affairs Commission (DIAC): A new state entity or advisory body empowered to study, advise, and coordinate Indigenous-related issues.
  • Composition and appointment: Criteria for membership (e.g., representation from Indigenous communities, state officials, or experts), appointment processes, term lengths, and any chair or co-chair roles.
  • Authority and responsibilities:
    • Developing and recommending policies, programs, and initiatives that support Indigenous communities.
    • Serving as a liaison between state agencies and Indigenous organizations.
    • Identifying funding opportunities and grant programs relevant to Indigenous affairs.
    • Collecting data and conducting research to inform policy decisions.
  • Meetings and operations: Requirements for meetings, public access, minutes, and transparency; conflict of interest provisions.
  • Funding and staffing: Provisions for appropriation of funds, staff support, and administrative duties to operate the commission.
  • Reporting and accountability: Requirements for annual or periodic reports to the General Assembly or other state bodies; performance metrics or evaluation standards.
  • Diversity and inclusion alignment: Coordination with existing state equity, cultural, or historical initiatives to avoid duplication of efforts.

Note: The specific statutory language, powers, and limitations will be detailed in the enacted text of the amendment to Title 29.

Who would be affected

  • Indigenous communities in Delaware: The primary beneficiaries and stakeholders who may receive greater recognition, resources, and participation in state policy discussions.
  • State agencies and departments: Agencies responsible for implementing policies affecting Indigenous affairs would coordinate with DIAC.
  • General Assembly and state policymakers: They would receive guidance, data, and recommendations from the commission to inform legislation and budget decisions.
  • Nonprofit and advocacy organizations: Groups working on Indigenous rights, culture, education, and community development may engage with the commission for partnerships and funding opportunities.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introductory status: As of 2026-04-09, HB 365 was introduced and assigned to the Administration Committee in the Delaware House of Representatives.
  • Next steps: The committee would hold hearings, consider amendments, and vote to move the bill to the full House. If advanced, it would proceed through the Senate with similar committee review and legislative processes, culminating in gubernatorial action (signing or veto) and potential implementation timelines if enacted.
  • Implementation timeline (typical): If enacted, there is usually a transition period for appointing members, establishing administrative offices, and operationalizing programs. Timelines for specific duties and reporting would be defined in the final act.

Notes

  • This summary reflects commonly anticipated provisions for establishing a state Indigenous affairs commission. The exact statutory language in HB 365 will determine precise powers, structure, funding, and implementation dates.
  • The bill lists a broad group of co-sponsors, indicating bipartisan interest in establishing the commission and addressing Indigenous affairs.

If you would like, I can tailor this summary further once the bill’s full text or committee hearing materials are available, providing precise sections, definitions, and timelines.

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

Sign in to ask a question.