DELAWARE- It was an unusual State of the State address as Governor Carney was all alone near the podium and mostly speaking to an audience not in the room.
Many topics are on his agenda for 2021 including making sure all children have the opportunity for education.. More money will go into the Opportunity Fund and the amount will be doubled for Kindergarten through third grade basic education needs.
“We need to ensure our most vulnerable students get the education that they deserve. Students that are living in poverty, students that are still learning English,” Carney said. “And I know that it is a priority for all of you.”
He also addressed issues of racial equality. Senate Bill 31 has been introduced which would make workplace discrimination illegal. Carney also sees police reform coming.
“This year we will support a plan to get body cameras for every police officer in the state,” Carney said. “There is so much more work to be done, but we have made important progress this year.”
The protection of Delaware's environment remains a top priority. Carney says he is aiming for energy sources to be forty percent renewable by 2035. Fifty million dollars will go towards a clean water trust fund.
Republican members of the general assembly gathered virtually to respond to the State of the State Address. As much as credit was given for the governor giving the address, they think not enough has been said about the government working together.
“If there is anything that I think my constituents are looking for coming into this new year is how government can work better and how government can be working together,” 6th District Senator Ernie Lopez said.
Attacking the state's biggest issues in the middle of a public health crisis.
