DELAWARE STATE POLICE LEGISLATIVE LIAISON

Sergeant Darren Lester

The purpose of the Delaware State Police Legislative Liaison Office is to serve as a liaison between the Delaware Department of Safety and Homeland Security and Delaware’s elected officials of the legislative and executive branches. There are six divisions within the DSHS which includes the Delaware Emergency Management Agency, the Office of Highway Safety, the Delaware Bureau of Alcohol and Tobacco Enforcement, the Division of Communications, the Capitol Police Department, and the Division of State Police. The Legislative Liaison Office helps prepare legislation and answers questions the Governor’s Office, members of the General Assembly, and representatives from other Delaware departments may have in regard to legislation which impacts any of the Department’s divisions.

During the most recent legislative session, the 145th General Assembly, the Division was fortunate to have the support of the Governor and legislators which resulted in the passage of the following bills that were of significant benefit to the Division.

HB# 100 - allows “sports betting” in gaming establishments.
SB# 135 - protection of retirement benefits of State Troopers called to military service.
HB# 152 - increased fines involving “DUI”.
SB# 185 - “Adam Walsh Act” (sex offender/$30 fee)
HB# 204 - expansion of 1st degree Murder to include paramedics, medical technicians, fire marshal, or fire police officer who is killed in “line of duty”.
SB# 178 - involves theft or possession of stolen prescription pads.
HB# 136 - enhanced penalties for sex offenders who victimize a child under twelve.
SB# 177 - enhanced penalties involving the “Ignition Interlock Diversion” program
SB# 175 - places “ONDD” under the protection of LEOBRA.

- Information obtained from 2009 DSP Annual Report -