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Bill

Bill

HB 37

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 6 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Bill Bush and 9 co-sponsors

Delaware amends public accommodations law; Governor signs measure after bipartisan legislative passage but with one proposed amendment defeated.

Signed by Governor
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Bill Summary · HB 37

Legislative bill overview

HB 37 amends Delaware's public accommodations law (Title 6 of the Delaware Code), though the specific amendments are not detailed in the legislative record provided. The bill passed both chambers of the Delaware legislature with bipartisan support before being signed into law by the Governor in August 2025.

Why is this important

Public accommodations laws establish legal protections for individuals accessing businesses and services open to the public. Changes to these statutes can expand or clarify protections for specific groups, alter compliance requirements for businesses, or update definitions and enforcement mechanisms—all of which have practical effects on both consumers and service providers.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of protected classes: The bill may expand which groups receive legal protection in public accommodations, which often generates debate between civil rights advocates and business groups
  • Business compliance burden: Amendments could impose new reporting, training, or operational requirements on businesses, raising concerns about costs and administrative complexity
  • Amendment rejection: Senate Amendment 1 was defeated 12-6, suggesting internal disagreement among legislators about specific provisions, though the nature of that amendment is not specified in available records

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

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