Delaware

Same-sex marriage protection takes next step toward Delaware Constitution

Published

1 month ago

March 12, 2026

Same-sex marriage protection takes next step toward Delaware Constitution

An amendment to enshrine the right to marry in the Delaware Constitution advanced March 11, clearing the House Administration Committee and moving closer to completing its first of two legislative hurdles.

Backed by state Sen. Russ Huxtable, the proposed amendment would recognize the right of individuals to marry as “a fundamental right.”

It adds that such rights may not be abridged or denied “on account of any basis protected” in Delaware’s most sacred legislative document, according to the bill pushing it forward. That includes race, sex, gender or national origin, to name a few. The amendment would also not “infringe upon the right to freedom of religion.”

Should this become law, all legally binding marriages under Delaware law “must be treated equally.” That also includes laws pertaining to married spouses or children of wedded spouses.

Delaware already legalized same-sex marriage in 2013 – two years before the U.S. Supreme Court made its historical decision in the case Obergefell v. Hodges.

Huxtable has previously cited ongoing efforts “rolling back” protections related to marriage equality nationwide, and he felt state legislators must now “take the next step” to enshrine it.

The bill already cleared through the Senate last year. Next, it will make its way to the House floor. Just like in the Senate, it will need two-thirds majority support to pass.

Then its legislative journey isn’t over yet.

Because this is just the first leg, it will also require passage in the next, newly minted General Assembly to make it to the state constitution.

Olivia Montes covers state government and community impact for Delaware Online/The News Journal. If you have a tip or a story idea, reach out to her at omontes@delawareonline.com.

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Delaware

Body found near Bowers Beach – 47abc

Published

6 hours ago

April 23, 2026

Press Room

BOWERS BEACH, Del. – Delaware State Police say a body was found near Bowers Beach on Tuesday.

Around 12:40 p.m. on April 21, Delaware State Police, Delaware Natural Resources Police and local fire companies responded to the Delaware Bay, about a mile offshore from the Bowers Beach area after commercial watermen discovered an unknown deceased man in the water.

The victim was recovered and turned over to the Office of Forensic Science for identification and to determine the cause of death.

The investigation remains active and on-going.

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Delaware

Humane Society of Delaware County picks new CEO

Published

19 hours ago

April 22, 2026

Press Room

Humane Society of Delaware County picks new CEO

The Humane Society of Delaware County has appointed a new leader as the organization’s longtime director moves toward retirement.

The animal rescue group’s board appointed Amanda Wampler as its new CEO, effective May 11, the organization posted on Facebook April 21.

Jana Cassidy, the humane society’s executive director for nearly a decade, is transitioning toward retirement and will now serve as chief operating officer in the near term to ensure a smooth transition.

The post from society Board President Megan Ricci says the board is confident Cassidy’s and Wampler’s experience, dedication and talents will elevate the humane society as it strives to build a new 22,000-square-foot facility that will be a go-to destination for adoption, veterinary care, training, boarding, and grooming.

“HSDC could not be in better hands than with these two extraordinary women,” the post reads.

Wampler is a proven nonprofit executive with experience in animal welfare and a demonstrated ability to help organizations expand and thrive, according to the humane society’s post.

Wampler currently is the national operations director for Siemer Institute, a Columbus-based organization that helps families across the U.S. achieve housing stability and enhance their children’s educational prospects, according to Wampler’s LinkedIn page. She also worked for the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department from 2016 to 2023.

Delaware County and eastern Columbus suburbs reporter Maria DeVito can be reached at mdevito@dispatch.com and @mariadevito13.dispatch.com on Bluesky and @MariaDeVito13 on X

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