Delaware 2025-2026 Regular Session

Delaware Senate Bill SCR173

Introduced
4/23/26  

Caption

Recognizing April 28, 2026, As Workers Memorial Day In The State Of Delaware.

Summary

SCR 173 is a simple concurrent resolution that designates April 28, 2026, as Workers Memorial Day in Delaware. The resolution is largely commemorative and declarative: it honors workers who have been killed, injured, or made ill on the job and urges Delawareans to remember those losses while recommitting to safer workplaces. The resolution’s findings cite national workplace safety concerns, including fatalities from hazardous conditions, occupational disease, workplace violence, and extreme heat exposure, as well as disparities affecting Black and Latino workers. It also references the anniversary of OSHA’s creation in 1971 and frames Workers Memorial Day as both a memorial observance and a call to action for stronger protections.

Impact

Because SCR 173 is a concurrent resolution, it does not amend Delaware statutes, create new regulatory requirements, or appropriate funds. Its legal effect is limited to formally recognizing April 28, 2026, as Workers Memorial Day and expressing the General Assembly’s support for policies that protect workers. The practical impact is symbolic and political, reinforcing public attention to occupational safety, labor conditions, and workplace health across sectors such as construction, public safety, education, manufacturing, and healthcare.

Sentiment

The available context suggests broad support and a respectful, pro-worker tone. The Senate Third Reading vote was unanimous at 20-0, indicating no recorded opposition in that chamber. The resolution’s language is solemn and commemorative, emphasizing remembrance, safety, and justice rather than partisan policy debate.

Contention

There is little evidence of substantive contention around the resolution itself, likely because it is a nonbinding memorial measure. The only potentially debated elements are the broader policy implications embedded in the findings, such as criticism of OSHA’s funding and staffing levels, workplace violence, extreme heat protections, and racial disparities in job fatalities. Those concerns are presented as reasons for action, but the bill text does not propose specific regulatory changes, so no direct opposition is reflected in the provided record.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.