Press Release: Legislative Push for Inspector General’s Office Faces Challenges Amid Budget Concerns
DOVER, DE – A renewed effort to establish an inspector general’s office in Delaware is gaining bipartisan support but continues to face financial hurdles, with a projected cost exceeding $590,000 in fiscal year (FY) 2026, and escalating to $1.4 million in FY 2027 and $1.5 million in FY 2028. The bill has garnered sponsorship from both Senate leaders, yet notable absences include House Democratic leadership, with only House Minority Leader Tim Dukes backing it.
Despite the lack of inclusion in former Governor John Carney’s budget or current Governor Matt Meyer’s “budget reset,” Senator Laura Sturgeon remains hopeful. "It’s interesting that the governor mentioned it in his State of the State address but didn’t include funding in his budget," she noted. Meyer has voiced his support for an inspector general’s office but his office has not clarified the decision to exclude it from the current budget proposal.
State legislative leaders, including Senate Finance Committee Chairman Trey Paradee, have indicated that bills with significant financial implications will not be addressed until they receive updated state revenue forecasts slated for May 19. The budget markup process is set to begin in early June.
The push for this office, which aims to enhance accountability and oversight within state operations, has been in discussions since 2007. Past legislative attempts failed, but recent scandals, including a theft of $181,000 from Delaware’s unemployment trust fund, have renewed interest in this initiative. The trust fund has reportedly remained unauditable in 2024, prompting calls for a robust oversight mechanism.
As the legislative session progresses, the proposal’s fate hangs in the balance, further complicated by economic uncertainties. The community awaits developments as lawmakers approach crucial revenue assessments and budget decisions.
This report is supported by a statehouse coverage grant from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
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