AGP Executive Report

School Mental Health Fight: Fifteen Democratic-led states sued the Trump administration to block cuts to a $1 billion school-based mental health grant program, arguing the plan violates a prior court order. Delaware Business Support: Gov. Matt Meyer announced a $4.5M Delaware Commercial Corridor Initiative offering 10%–25% grants (up to $25,000) to help small businesses upgrade storefronts and operations. Opioid Funding: Delaware opened a fourth competitive grant round for $12.75M from opioid settlement funds, with applications due Aug. 12. Public Safety & Health: Delaware reported over 900 people used the Sober Ride program since last Thanksgiving, and Delaware State Police launched an internal review after a Dover traffic stop video. Transportation & Local Action: Milton council voted to ask DelDOT to cut speed on Sand Hill Road near The Granary. Sports & Community: The HBCU Swingman Classic highlighted Delaware State’s Santino Harwood during MLB All-Star weekend in Philly. Patriotic Milestones: Thousands walked the Ben Franklin Bridge for its 100th birthday.

Delaware Consumer Protection: Delaware will receive $314,000 from a $45 million multistate settlement with Block over alleged Cash App deception and fraud-handling failures, with AG Kathy Jennings saying the case targets misleading claims about protections for users. Delaware Energy & Rates: Delaware regulators pushed back on Delmarva Power’s rate hike request, approving only part of it after Gov. Matt Meyer pressured the Public Service Commission to ease electricity-bill pain. Delaware County Cyberattack: Delaware County says a “sophisticated cybercriminal attack” gave hackers limited access to its network and data; internal systems are back up while officials work to restore outside-facing services. Local Governance & Public Safety: Delaware State Police are investigating a viral Dover traffic stop video involving a trooper’s use of force; the agency says the stop escalated after a woman resisted and was initially cited for suspended tags, no insurance, and no license. Community & Access: Alapocas Run State Park added free all-terrain track chairs for visitors with mobility challenges, joining White Clay Creek’s program. Sports & Community Spotlight: Delaware State’s Santino Harwood stood out during the HBCU Swingman Classic at Citizens Bank Park during MLB All-Star Week.

Delaware Permitting Push: Gov. Matt Meyer launched the JobsFirst Permitting Accelerator website to speed up reviews for priority projects like housing, broadband, and water/sewer, aiming for clearer communication and a dedicated point of contact. Public Safety & Courts: Delaware State Police are reviewing a viral Dover traffic-stop arrest video involving a trooper and Sierra Hopkins, with an internal review underway and charges including assaulting an officer and endangering children. Local Crime: Felton police arrested Smyrna resident Shawna Kay Barsness on a terroristic threatening charge tied to 2025 social-media threats. Business & Community: Three Notch’d Brewery & Craft Kitchen opened on Route 1 near Rehoboth, reviving a former Iron Hill location. Statewide Tech/Research: A UD physics professor unveiled CosmicWatch, a small muon detector meant to make deep-space particle tracking usable in classrooms and labs. Regional Costs: AAA reports gas prices rose again, including a Delaware jump, as drivers complain about strain on budgets. Sports (Delaware County): The Phillies were routed 10-2 by the Tigers in a game that included Delaware County native Kevin McGonigle’s big night.

Health Care Expansion: Delaware NeuroRehab bought the former Governor Bacon Health Center site in Delaware City to open the state’s first post-acute brain injury rehab program, with 28 inpatient rooms and therapy space; renovations are slated for completion in spring 2027. Police Accountability: Delaware State Police and Gov. Matt Meyer say they’re investigating a Dover woman’s arrest after a passer-by video circulated online, showing an alleged physical confrontation and taser use; the woman faces charges including assaulting an officer and endangering four children. Gaming Rules: A quick guide to where online casino real money is legal notes only eight states currently operate regulated platforms, including Delaware, and stresses location checks before playing. State Parks Overhaul: Delaware will hold a public hearing Aug. 5 on the first major state parks rules update in a decade, including changes to magnet fishing, e-bike definitions, reservation resale, and drug/alcohol rules. Local Economy: Delaware Prosperity Partnership named Monique Claiborne Cardwell as its next president/CEO, effective Sept. 14. Courts & Finance: A Delaware Chancery dispute tied to the Skechers $9.4B buyout highlights competing efforts to set deal terms and access internal records.

Delaware Politics & Services: Ocean View lawmakers are pressing USPS over Ocean View Post Office construction/repair delays after the site shut in Oct. 2025, with Sen. Gerald Hocker calling the lack of timelines “disgraceful.” Public Safety & Transportation: Bethany Beach residents are worried after DelDOT removed Route 26 crosswalk markings and replaced crossings with median-island designs; business owner Lisa Difebo says near-misses and at least one older pedestrian hit have followed. State Government: Delaware lawmakers passed a freshwater wetlands bill, while the General Assembly’s late-session scramble was discussed on “Beyond the Headlines.” Health Watch: A new COVID subvariant, “Nimbus” (NB.1.8.1), is now dominant nationally, with wastewater signals rising in 10 states—officials urge high-risk Delawareans to check vaccine status. Consumer Protection: AG Kathy Jennings announced a $45M multistate Cash App settlement with Block, with Delaware set to receive over $300K. Sports & Community: Delaware State Police arrested Dover woman Sierra Hopkins after a traffic stop escalated into resistance and a taser deployment; and the 10th annual History Book Festival returns to Lewes Sept. 25-27 with mostly free author events.

Delaware Politics: Delaware lawmakers are reacting after Gov. Matt Meyer vetoed $35 million for Legislative Hall expansion, arguing the upgrades are needed for seating, parking access, and security while Meyer cites affordability concerns. Consumer Protection: Delaware Attorney General Kathy Jennings joined a $45 million multistate settlement with Block (Cash App) over claims the company misled users about safety and failed to protect them from fraud; Delaware will receive more than $314,000, with changes required to fraud prevention and customer support. Public Safety & Fraud Prevention: Delaware is also in the mix of a broader push for tougher federal robocall rules, as AGs urge the FCC to cut scammers off from legitimate phone numbers. Healthcare Innovation: Mosaic Health Solutions incorporated as a Delaware C-corp to advance AI medication-safety tools for older adults ahead of a planned August clinical pilot. Local Community: A Lewes Boy Scout troop member earned Eagle rank, and Voices Unhidden launched in Cecil County to help victims of online harassment with services, advocacy, and training. Weather Alert: A flood watch includes parts of Delaware as heavy storms threaten flash flooding in the region.

Delaware DEFER Update: Delaware will automatically enroll new state employees in the DEFER 457(b) retirement program, with opt-out and contribution changes still allowed, aiming to close a long-running retirement savings gap. Opioid Care in ERs: Delaware hospitals adopted statewide Emergency Department guidance for opioid use disorder treatment, standardizing how patients are identified, treated, and connected to ongoing care. Education Leadership: Sussex Academy promoted Caleb Marcus as Student Member of the Delaware State Board of Education, and Megan Reed was named dean of elementary at Sussex Academy. Public Works: DelDOT says the final stretch of the Georgetown-Lewes Trail should open this fall after $17.5 million in remaining work. Digital Skills for Residents: Delaware Libraries launched a 10-week digital literacy program with AmeriCorps VISTA specialists at 21 libraries, helping people with online applications, basic tech skills, and even AI basics. Politics & Policy: Gov. Matt Meyer vetoed $35 million for Legislative Hall expansion, while lawmakers criticized the move as undermining safety, accessibility, and public participation.

Opioid Response in Delaware: Delaware hospitals are rolling out statewide emergency department guidance for opioid use disorder, aiming for consistent, compassionate care and faster medication-assisted treatment plus stronger links to peer recovery and long-term services. Statehouse Watch: Gov. Matt Meyer vetoed $35 million for Legislative Hall expansion in Delaware, citing affordability and potentially reigniting tensions with lawmakers. Digital Access: Delaware Libraries launched a 10-week summer Digital Literacy Specialists program, placing AmeriCorps-trained helpers in 21 libraries to assist with tech basics, online applications, AI help, and scam avoidance. Local Community Events: Angola by the Bay in Lewes will host its 51st annual craft show July 18, and Rehoboth Beach youth are benefiting from a summer reading push through the BookNook literacy program. Founding History, Delaware Style: Historic Lewes held a Declaration of Independence read-aloud with 26 community members taking turns reading portions of the document. Public Safety & Courts: A Delaware Chancery Court judge will decide whether Wilmington City Council can remove Councilman James Spadola from office as a legal fight over his party switch continues.

Public Safety & Health: Delaware hospitals rolled out statewide emergency-department guidance for opioid use disorder, aiming to start medication sooner, connect patients with peer recovery specialists, and standardize care across the state. State Politics: Gov. Matt Meyer vetoed a $35 million Legislative Hall expansion appropriation in the FY2027 bond bill, arguing the project’s likely $116 million price tag isn’t affordable while families face housing, health care, and energy costs. Courts & Local Governance: Delaware Chancery Court heard arguments on whether Wilmington Councilman James Spadola can keep his at-large seat after switching parties, with a decision pending. Business & Finance: Payward/Kraken asked Delaware’s Court of Chancery to enter final judgment on a $22 million arbitration win against former auditor Mazars USA. Community & Culture: Delaware Public Archives’ First Saturday program will screen a new documentary on Delaware’s role in the Declaration of Independence, including Caesar Rodney’s ride. Food Safety: Aldi recalled Fusia Asian Inspirations kimchi & tofu kimbap due to undeclared fish allergen, including distribution in Delaware.

Banking & Crypto Policy: Gov. Matt Meyer signed Delaware’s banking modernization package—Senate Bills 16, 18 and 19—updating the state’s rules for digital assets, virtual currency and stablecoins, with a focus on consumer protections and a modernized licensing framework. Education: Meyer also appointed Cape Henlopen High School senior Caleb Marcus as the student member of the Delaware State Board of Education for 2026-27, with plans to push career-technical education alignment and help roll out AI policies. Health Workforce: The University of Delaware launched Delaware’s first nurse-midwife master’s program, aiming to address a statewide shortage by accepting eight students into the inaugural fall cohort. Environment & Public Health: DNREC is urging Delaware residents to be more tick-aware this summer, highlighting black-legged and lone star ticks as the main concerns. Business & Local Economy: Wakefern announced a $500 million, five-year commitment to source fresh produce from local and regional growers across the Northeast, including Delaware-area retail banners. Community Notes: Delaware’s Cutest Dogs Contest is down to 15 pups heading into Round 5. Food Safety: ALDI’s Fusia Asian Inspirations Kimchi & Tofu Kimbap was recalled in Delaware due to an undeclared tuna allergen.

Delaware Politics & Economy: Gov. Matt Meyer signed three banking modernization bills into law, updating Delaware’s financial framework for new payment methods and fintech while aiming to protect consumers and keep the First State competitive. Health Tech: Delaware DHSS and the Delaware Health Care Commission launched a Rural Health Transformation Program to speed insurance verification and prior authorization statewide using the Delaware Health Information Network and Smart Health Network. Public Safety: Delaware State Police are investigating a Lyft driver carjacking in Frederica, and a separate Dewey Beach arrest followed a domestic-related stabbing. Community & Culture: Freeman Arts Pavilion in Selbyville unveiled its $43M transformation ahead of the 2026 season, including a new 4,000-seat outdoor venue. Weather & Emergencies: Storms and flooding hit the region, leaving many without power, while a Delaware River tubing incident ended with a teen found dead. Food Safety: Aldi recalled a kimchi product in multiple states, including Delaware, due to undeclared fish. Sports & Local Spotlight: OperaDelaware announced its 2026/27 season under new General Director Eric Einhorn.

Delaware Politics: Delaware lawmakers passed a constitutional amendment enshrining protections for same-sex marriage, setting up another vote next year to make it permanent. Elections & Law: Delaware’s U.S. Attorney’s Office is investigating Hunter Biden’s tax affairs, with Biden saying he expects to be exonerated. Public Safety: A New Castle County man was sentenced to life for the 2024 stabbing and dismemberment of his ex-girlfriend. State Economy: Delaware Prosperity Partnership named Monique Claiborne Cardwell as its next CEO, starting Sept. 14. Governance/Business: A Delaware Chancery ruling on DGCL Section 144 raised the bar for challenging director independence at the pleading stage. Community & Health: Delaware State University trustees elected John Ridgeway as incoming board chair. Weather/Outages: Severe storms and heat drove major power outages across the region, with crews working to restore service. Food & Consumer: Aldi recalled a kimchi/tofu kimbap product sold in Delaware due to undeclared fish (tuna).

Local Public Safety: Delaware State Police arrested Wilmington man Paul Waller, 39, in Pennsylvania after a July 4 shooting outside an Arden-area pizza shop left a woman with a gunshot wound to the face; troopers say the attack followed an argument, and Waller faces attempted murder and weapons charges after extradition. State Politics & Policy: Delaware’s Wetlands Stewardship Act cleared final passage, creating a DNREC program to protect about 75,000 acres of nontidal wetlands and funding 12 full-time staff. Local Government: Milton Town Council will ask DelDOT to lower the speed limit on Sand Hill Road near The Granary development from 50 mph to 35 mph. Community & Culture: Sodelo (Southern Delaware Orchestra) announced “American Spirit, Coastal Soul,” with Delaware composer works and performances July 11 in Milford and July 12 in Cape Henlopen. Travel & Weather: The Cape May-Lewes Ferry canceled several July 5 trips due to mechanical issues, with limited car space on some remaining departures. Arts & Lifestyle: Arden Lamp Works is now selling handcrafted mica-and-plant lamps at The Market at Dover Station. Sports (regional): Phillies ace Zack Wheeler faces Pirates rookie Paul Skenes in a July 1 pitching duel at Citizens Bank Park.

Independence Day, 250th anniversary: Storms and extreme heat disrupted celebrations across the region, including Newark’s fireworks, which were cut short after lightning and high winds; still, thousands turned out earlier for Liberty Day festivities. Delaware travel & safety: With holiday travel in full swing, Delaware’s rest-area rules are getting attention—drivers can sleep in cars at the Biden Welcome Center (as long as needed) and the Smyrna Rest Area (up to six hours; longer for trucks/RVs). Local community & culture: Delaware’s Cutest Dog contest is wrapping up, and the state is now accepting entries for a new Delaware’s Most Adorable Cat competition (deadline July 10). Outdoors in the First State: Delaware waterfalls are being highlighted for summer hikes, including easy options around Wilmington and nearby parks. Land conservation: Sussex County Land Trust marked 25 years of protecting open space, with its work tied to the Delaware Botanic Gardens at Pepper Creek. International spotlight: India’s sail training ship INS Sudarshini arrived in New York Harbour for Sail 250 and the U.S. International Naval Review, underscoring growing India–U.S. naval ties.

MLB & Delaware Pride: Phillies’ Brandon Marsh was named an All-Star starter, with Cristopher Sánchez and Jhoan Duran also making the roster, as Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber earned reserve spots for the July 14 game at Citizens Bank Park. America 250 on the Delaware Riverfront: Crowds packed the Delaware riverfront for Fourth of July celebrations, cooling off with free water and lemonade before fireworks—delayed briefly by storm clouds. Heat & Storm Disruptions: Extreme heat and severe weather upended plans across the region, including power outages affecting more than 842,000 households and storm-related changes to holiday events. Delaware Outdoors: The Nature Conservancy wrapped up a safer, more accessible trail upgrade at McCabe Nature Preserve near Milton, with a second phase planned to expand parking and improve additional paths. Declaration of Independence Spotlight: A look back at the 56 signers and what happened after the document was adopted as the nation marks 250 years.

Holiday Safety & Weather: The National Weather Service warns of extreme heat plus severe storms and damaging winds across Delaware and the Mid-Atlantic on July 4, with some plans already canceled. Local Crime: Dewey Beach police arrested Dover resident Samuel Coker after a domestic-related stabbing on July 3; the 37-year-old victim was treated and is stable, and Coker faces multiple charges including first-degree assault. Wastewater Update: Artesian Wastewater asked DNREC to start accepting flow to a new Sussex Regional Recharge Facility outside Milton, with infrastructure upgrades already completed and a short testing period expected after approval. Beach Public Safety: Rehoboth Beach Patrol will host the 2026 U.S. Lifesaving Association Mid-Atlantic Lifeguard Championships July 8, with results feeding a Sussex County team for the national event in August. Energy & Labor: PECO workers went on strike July 4 for the first time in the utility’s 145-year history after contract talks stalled. Road Risk: A MoneyGeek analysis ranks Delaware among the more dangerous states for July 4 travel, citing fatal crash rates and impaired-driving risk. America 250 Backdrop: A Philadelphia time capsule is being buried for opening in 2276, including handwritten notes from Delaware residents.