The Delaware House and Senate overwhelmingly passed the fiscal 2022 operating budget Wednesday, a $4.77-billion spending plan that boosted spending for public schools, higher education and health care services.
The budget was passed well before the end of the session and comes at a time when a combination of higher tax revenues and money from the federal CARES and Rescue acts bolstered areas affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Republicans have less leverage, thanks to Democrats picking up two Senate seats in the past election.
Also passed was a $221-million supplemental budget, also sponsored by Rep. William Carson, which provides one-time funding for other purchases.
The lone no votes came from State Sen. Colin Bonini, R-Dover, who followed his tradition of always voting nay and State Rep. Richard Collins, R-Millsboro.
Gov. John Carney, who will sign the budget, issued the following:
“I want to thank members of the Joint Finance Committee – and especially the chairs, Representative Carson and Senator Paradee – for their thoughtful work on this budget in such an unusual year. This is a responsible, sustainable financial plan that protects taxpayer dollars and invests in the future of our state. In this budget, we’re investing more than ever in our classrooms, and in direct services for low-income students and English learners. These are the children who need our help the most. We’re adding to our budget reserves so we’ll again be ready if we face a crisis or revenue downturn. And we’re investing in our state workers, who have been on the front lines of the Covid-19 pandemic since Day 1. I look forward to signing this budget soon.”
