AARP’s Advocacy in the First State: Looking back, looking ahead

As 2024 comes to a close, AARP Delaware’s advocacy work hasn’t slowed down. We’ve won in our efforts to advocate for you as the 2025 bills are signed into law by Governor Meyer. We’ve been supporting local efforts to create affordable housing throughout the summer and fall. Here’s a recap and a look ahead:

Ivelin Radkov

• HB 147, Transfer on Death Deed. This bill allows for an easier way to leave property to someone when you pass away. It is particularly useful for those who do not have a will. It will provide peace of mind for Delaware families. 
• SB 4, which created an Office of the Inspector General in Delaware. This non-partisan Office is designed to increase oversight, accountability and public trust in state government. 
• SB 150, which created an Affordable Rental Housing Program. This will increase the supply of affordable housing for low- and moderate-income households, older adults, and individuals with disabilities. 

In 2026 

As we begin our planning for next year, we will continue to advocate to make life better for Delawareans.

• AARP Delaware will continue working to prevent fraud and scams of all types. Two bills, HB 57 and HB 89, on Home Improvement Fraud will be reintroduced next year. We will continue to advocate for their benefits. 
• We will address cryptocurrency scams, in particular those in which Crypto ATMs are used to steal people’s hard-earned money. 
• We will assist with the implementation of Paid Leave.
• We will continue to advocate for voter access and information during the midterms and some key state-level elections.  

We will also continue our commitment to more options for “missing middle housing”—house-scale buildings with multiple units located in walkable neighborhoods.

Since AARP began working on housing issues, all three counties in Delaware and the town of Lewes have loosened restrictions on accessory dwelling units (mother-in-law suites), and New Castle County passed an ordinance to allow “pocket neighborhoods.” These are clustered groups of smaller houses gathered around a shared open space—some call it a “neighborhood within a neighborhood.” Creative ideas like this will allow more people to age in their communities and stay connected with their neighbors and the activities they enjoy.

If you’d like to volunteer as an AARP Delaware advocate, visit www.aarp.org/IWantToVolunteer to learn about us and show your interest.