Legislative Hall in Dover awoke from its hibernation as lawmakers convened for the first day of the 147th General Assembly.
New members of the House were sworn into office alongside their family members during the kick off to the new session.
Newly elected State Rep. Jeff Spiegelman (R-11th District) says promoting a more efficient government, supporting small businesses and community safety will be his priorities this session.
The freshman Republican says the calls for further gun control in the state fails to address the core public safety issues.
“If we really want to make the state of Delaware, targeting guns is not the way to do it. Targeting criminals is the way to do it and I don’t see the bills being introduced now as the ones that are doing that," said Spiegelman.
Sen. Robert Marshall (D-Wilmington West) has said he will introduce a bill banning the sale of military-style assault weapons and high capacity magazines this week
Senate newcomer Nicole Poore (D-12th District) says she plans to delve into bullying issues with her new role on the education committee.
“Education has always been a love of mine. I have three children, so making sure that their futures are bright and a path forward to education for all of the Delaware citizens is most important to me,” said Poore
Poore will also head the Senate’s Sunset Committee.
Although the disposition in the building was cheerful Tuesday, lawmakers may face budgetary challenges in the upcoming session due to certain taxes set to expire.
If those taxes sunset, the legislature will have to fill a hole of more than 73 million dollars for fiscal year 2014.
The body will return to Dover today to begin their six-month session.
