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HB 287

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 4 AND TITLE 29 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO THE JOINT LEGISLATIVE OVERSIGHT AND SUNSET COMMITTEE.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Rich Collins and 9 co-sponsors

HB 287 would strengthen JLOSC oversight by expanding sunset review authority and requiring more structured agency cooperation, reporting, and timelines.

Signed by Governor
0
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Bill Summary · HB 287

Summary of HB 287 (Session 153, Delaware)

Purpose and intent

HB 287 proposes amendments to Title 4 and Title 29 of the Delaware Code related to the Joint Legislative Oversight and Sunset Committee (JLOSC). The bill appears to reorganize, clarify, or expand the authority, structure, and procedures of the JLOSC, which is the legislative body responsible for reviewing state programs, agencies, and laws to determine if they should be continued, modified, or terminated (sunset review). The overarching goal is to enhance oversight, accountability, and efficiency in the administration of state programs through formal sunset reviews and related oversight activities.

Key provisions and changes (as indicated by the title and bill history)

  • Jurisdiction and scope (Titles 4 and 29): The bill amends provisions within Title 4 (which covers business, corporations, and related regulatory matters; in Delaware, it often touches on alcohol regulation, among other topics) and Title 29 (the Delaware Administrative Code/State Government and related oversight). The exact text of amendments is not provided, but the focus is on JLOSC governance and sunset review processes.
  • Joint Legislative Oversight and Sunset Committee enhancements:
    • Potential changes to the composition, qualifications, or appointment process for JLOSC members (e.g., who can serve, term lengths, or grounds for removal).
    • Clarifications to the JLOSC’s authorities, including mandate to conduct sunset reviews, program evaluations, and possible recommendations for continuation, modification, or termination of state programs.
    • Procedural tweaks to how sunset reviews are initiated, scheduled, and reported, including timelines for agency responses and committee findings.
  • Procedural and reporting requirements:
    • Timeframes for submitting sunset reports to the General Assembly.
    • Requirements for agencies to cooperate with JLOSC, provide information, or prepare appearance/hearings.
    • Mechanisms for legislative action on JLOSC recommendations (e.g., how findings translate into bills or oversight orders).

Who would be affected

  • State agencies and programs subject to sunset reviews: Agencies may be required to participate more actively in assessments, provide data, and respond to inquiries tied to JLOSC reviews.
  • Legislative body (Delaware General Assembly) and JLOSC: The committee’s workflow, reporting cadence, and authority over sunset determinations could be adjusted, influencing legislative consideration of programs’ continuation or termination.
  • Other stakeholders: State contractors, grant recipients, or regulated entities may experience changes in program lifespan, funding decisions, or regulatory oversight depending on sunset outcomes.

Significant procedural or timeline aspects

  • Introduction and committee assignment: The bill was introduced and assigned to the Sunset Committee (Policy Analysis & Government Accountability) on 2026-01-29.
  • Committee action: Reported out of Committee with “4 On Its Merits” on 2026-04-14, indicating the committee supports advancing the bill favorably to the full House (subject to further House action).
  • Sponsor slate: Multiple co-sponsors from both chambers’ perspectives, suggesting bipartisan attention and broad interest in oversight improvements.

Potential impacts and considerations

  • The bill could strengthen statutory guidance for sunset reviews, potentially leading to earlier termination or reform of underperforming programs.
  • If enacted, agencies may face more structured reporting requirements and stricter deadlines for responses and data provision.
  • The exact fiscal impact (costs of additional oversight activities or savings from terminated programs) would depend on the final text and implementation rules, which would clarify funding sources and administrative burden.

Note: This summary is based on the bill’s title, session, and reported actions. For precise provisions, language, and fiscal impact, consult the bill’s full text and any fiscal notes accompanying the final enactment.

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

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