Delaware — As lawmakers approach the critical phase of finalizing the state’s fiscal year 2026 budget, House Republicans are advocating for significant spending reductions. The group argues that Governor Matt Meyer’s proposed $6.58 billion budget marks an unsustainable 7.4% increase over the current $6.1 billion plan. Republicans highlight that if enacted, the state’s spending will have risen by more than $2 billion in five years, a surge exceeding 45%. They warn this growth places unnecessary pressure on taxpayers and the state’s financial flexibility.
To address this, House Republicans have outlined a series of targeted measures. They propose filling persistent job vacancies—currently numbering 2,139, with 886 open for over six months—to save an estimated $44.3 million. Another recommendation is to delay the scheduled increase of starting public teacher salaries to $60,000 from 2027 to 2028, potentially saving $30 million while maintaining most planned raises. Further, the caucus urges reducing overall budget growth from 7.4% to 6.4% by requiring departments to identify operational efficiencies.
Longer-term strategies include selling surplus state properties, optimizing procurement processes through bulk purchasing and technology, and adjusting prevailing wage rules on certain renovation and construction projects to reduce costs by up to 20%. They also suggest extending the lifespan of state vehicles by an additional year to defer replacement expenses. Rep. Charles Postles of Milford voiced opposition to recent legislation that would increase fees, licenses, and permits under DNREC and DelDOT, arguing such hikes conflict with calls for spending restraint. “Increasing costs on citizens and small businesses during a time of proposed cuts is contradictory,” he said. The Joint Finance Committee begins formal budget deliberations this week, setting the stage for critical decisions on Delaware’s fiscal priorities.
