SB9 Wetlands Protection Bill
Summary
Delaware Governor signed SB9 into law, amending Title 7 of the Delaware Code to strengthen wetlands protection. The bill establishes new regulatory requirements for activities affecting wetlands, with implications for developers, construction firms, and agricultural operations. The 153rd General Assembly passed the bipartisan legislation with 20 sponsors from both parties.
What changed
SB9 amends Title 7 of the Delaware Code to enhance wetlands protection measures. The bill modifies existing regulatory requirements for activities that disturb or impact wetlands, potentially including new permitting standards, mitigation requirements, or prohibited activities. The legislation was introduced on March 31, 2026, and signed into law the same day, indicating expedited passage.
Regulated entities conducting construction, agricultural operations, or land development activities in or near Delaware wetlands should immediately review their current projects and procedures for compliance with the new requirements. Property owners, developers, and agricultural firms should consult with Delaware environmental authorities to understand how SB9 affects ongoing or planned activities. Failure to comply with wetlands protection requirements may result in civil penalties, restoration orders, or injunctive relief under Delaware environmental law.
What to do next
- Review current projects for wetlands impacts under the amended Title 7 requirements
- Consult with Delaware environmental authorities regarding new permitting or mitigation requirements
- Update compliance procedures to reflect changes to wetlands protection standards
Source document (simplified)
ChangeBridge / Delaware / SB9 Signed by Governor SB9 Senate Bill Signed by Governor 2026-03-31
An Act To Amend Title 7 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The Protection Of Wetlands.
Bill Details
State Delaware
Session 153rd General Assembly
Chamber Senate
Committee Environment, Energy & Transportation
Official Source legis.delaware.gov/BillDetail?LegislationI...
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Sponsors
Stephanie Hansen (Sen - D) Bryan Townsend (Sen - D) Debra Heffernan (Rep - D) Eric Buckson (Sen - R) Daniel Cruce (Sen - D) Kyra Hoffner (Sen - D) Russ Huxtable (Sen - D) Raymond Seigfried (Sen - D) David Sokola (Sen - D) Laura Sturgeon (Sen - D) Alonna Berry (Rep - D) Stephanie Bolden (Rep - D) Frank Burns (Rep - D) Mara Gorman (Rep - D) Larry Lambert (Rep - D) Eric Morrison (Rep - D) Edward Osienski (Rep - D) Sophie Phillips (Rep - D) Cyndie Romer (Rep - D) Claire Snyder-Hall (Rep - D)
Action History
2026-03-31 S Introduced and Assigned to Environment, Energy & Transportation Committee in Senate
Committee Referrals
2026-03-31 S Environment, Energy & Transportation
Bill Text Versions
0000-00-00 Draft Legislative data powered by LegiScan (CC BY 4.0)
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