DOVER — For Delaware’s 152nd General Assembly, the state Senate will continue to hold legislative sessions and committee meetings in a hybrid format.

The format allows both in-person and virtual public participation during such proceedings, with a livestream here.

“When we began holding legislative session and running committee meetings via Zoom back in 2020, it was strictly out of necessity. Now, three years later, we have seen the tremendous benefits of using the technology available to us to allow for both in-person and virtual participation,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Dave Sokola, D-Newark.

“The Senate is eager to continue conducting business in a hybrid manner going forward. Our government works best when the public is able to participate with ease.”

The body’s committee meetings will be held in person in either the Senate chamber, the Senate Hearing Room or the Joint Finance Committee Room. Each will be equipped to stream hearings via Zoom.

The Senate will continue to utilize the Zoom Webinar platform, which allows two levels of participation: panelists and attendees. Panelists, which include committee members and expert witnesses, will be seen by all attendees on camera. Attendees, which include members of the public, will not be shown on camera or be allowed to unmute themselves without being elevated to the level of panelist or without staff permission.

Public comment will continue to be offered in person and virtually at the respective committee chair’s discretion.

“During the height of the pandemic, when the legislature was only able to hold virtual committee meetings, public participation skyrocketed to levels Legislative Hall meeting rooms simply couldn’t accommodate alone,” said Senate Majority Leader Bryan Townsend, D-Newark.

“Now, as the Senate moves forward with a hybrid format, those who prefer to attend proceedings in person will have that option, while those who prefer to participate remotely, as they shuffle work, school or other responsibilities, will have that ability preserved.”

Committee notices will continue to be posted on the General Assembly website, where a registration link for virtual participants will be available.

The state’s House of Representatives is also offering live and online attendance of its sessions and committee meetings.