Wharton: AARP Delaware announces 2026 advocacy agenda

AARP Delaware’s mission is to ensure that Delawareans 50 and older have more options for how they want to live as they age. We also strive to find ways that Delawareans can remain in their own homes and communities for as long as possible. Our advocacy agenda for this year’s legislative session includes priorities that support voting access, energy affordability, housing stability, preventing fraud and protections for people experiencing homelessness. We believe these issues will improve the lives not only of older Delawareans but also of generations to come.

As part of the state office’s advocacy agenda, the team of staff and volunteers will work to support passage of the following legislation:

• House Bill 65, election date consolidation and voter participation reform — Consolidates state, county and municipal primary elections with the presidential primary in April
• Senate Bill 205, electric utility certification and grid reliability oversight, and House Bill 233, rates for large energy use facilities and Public Service Commission oversight — Ensures that large electricity users (such as data centers) won’t pass costs on to consumers
• House Bill 13, protections for individuals experiencing homelessness — Defines adequate alternative indoor spaces and life-sustaining activities; expands emergency housing options
• Senate Substitute 1 for Senate Bill 116, right of redemption for tenants — Allows tenants facing eviction for nonpayment to remain housed if they pay all amounts owed before eviction, thus reducing housing instability

Older Delawareans and their families deserve stable housing, fair utility rates and a voting system that is accessible and efficient. This agenda reflects the real concerns we hear from residents every day and our commitment to advancing policies that strengthen financial and community security.

Kimberly Wharton

Communications manager, AARP Delaware

Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at civiltalk@iniusa.org.