Delaware end of summer update!
As summer begins to wind down, I’m excited to share a few updates about the American Heart Association’s advocacy efforts in Delaware—and invite you to stay connected as we look ahead to the next legislative session.
🏅 Celebrating a Win for Student Safety: HB 71 Signed into Law
We’re thrilled to share that House Bill 71 (as amended), the Athletic Emergency Action Plan (EAP) legislation sponsored by Rep. Kerri Evelyn Harris, has officially been signed into law by Governor Matt Meyer!
This landmark legislation ensures every school athletic program in Delaware is equipped to respond swiftly and effectively to cardiac emergencies—helping protect the lives of student athletes, staff, and other event attendees across the state.
This bipartisan effort reflects Delaware’s strong commitment to protecting student athletes, and it would not have been possible without the dedication of many passionate advocates like you.
We would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Sean Connolly, pediatric cardiologist at Nemour’s Children’s Hospital and American Heart Association Volunteer, who graciously authored this op-ed about the passage of HB 71, saying:
“The passage of (House Bill) 71 is not just a legislative decision — it is a commitment to the health and well-being of our children.”
We are deeply grateful both to our Heart Powered volunteer advocates and dedicated community partners—including Dr. Bradley Bley of the DIAA Board of Directors and Sports Medicine Advisory Committee (Chair); Greer Firestone, Founder of Heart in the Game and parent of SCA survivor Dr. Grace Firestone; Erin Bailey at the American College of Cardiology; and many more.
We look forward to the full implementation of the EAP law, celebrating the passage of this critical policy at a public signing event later in the fall, and continuing this collaborative and purposeful partnership to enhance cardiac emergency preparedness in all Delaware schools.
🍴 Healthy Start for Every Student: HB 91 Becomes Law
We’re excited to share another major win for Delaware students and families: House Bill 91 (as amended), sponsored by Rep. Kimberly Williams, has also been signed into law!
Starting in the 2026-2027 school year, every child attending a public school participating in the federal School Breakfast Program will receive a nutritious morning meal at no cost—regardless of household income.
This legislation marks a powerful step forward in ensuring hunger does not stand in the way of health, learning, or opportunity in Delaware. We look forward to continuing this momentum and advancing policies that promote health and wellness to all Delawareans, regardless of their household income or zip code.
📅 Looking Ahead: 2026 General Assembly Legislative Session
While summer can bring a slower pace to state policy work, we’ve been working hard behind the scenes to build momentum for the year ahead. We’ve been:
- Strategizing for the second half of the 2025-26 Assembly session
- Strengthening and growing our grassroots network of Heart Powered advocates
- Building relationships with key leaders, partners, and communities
Your Delaware advocacy team is looking forward to sharing updates soon on key policy priorities, emerging issues, and how you can stay involved and make an impact. In the meantime, please reach out with any questions or ideas—just reply to this email!
As always, thank you for your continued commitment to heart health and wellness in the First State. Wishing you and yours a joyful and restorative end to summer—and renewed energy for the season ahead.