His remarks highlighted his administration’s values, accomplishments, and goals for education, housing, economic development, and more 

DOVER – On April 10, 2025, Governor Matt Meyer delivered his first State of the State address before a joint session of the 153rd General Assembly, laying out a bold and optimistic vision for Delaware’s future. In his address, Governor Meyer called for decisive action on key priorities including education reform, affordable housing, accessible healthcare, workforce development, and efficient government operations.

Throughout the speech, Governor Meyer urged lawmakers to collaborate and act urgently to deliver meaningful results for Delawareans. In closing his remarks, Governor Meyer was clear that the path forward for Delaware involves unity, courage, and optimism: 

“In this time of tremendous challenge and division across our nation, I believe there is tremendous opportunity for Delaware. Everywhere I go, I hear the same things. People don’t want handouts – they just want a fair shot…We have the chance to evolve. To innovate. To rethink and reimagine old systems. To take steps and introduce programs that genuinely lead the nation……Together, we will restore your faith in Delaware’s ability to make big things happen. Because our state is hopeful, our state is fearless, and the state of our state is strong! We are ready to meet this moment and prove to the world that Delaware does deliver.” 

The complete text can be found here. 

State of the State Highlights 

Tax Relief & Budget Equity:

For the first time in decades, Delaware will reduce personal income taxes for 92% of residents while ensuring the wealthiest contribute their fair share. The Governor’s proposed budget also includes eliminating $50 million in medical debt and introduces new tax brackets for high earners. 

Investing in Classrooms:

Reaffirming a commitment to public education, Governor Meyer noted investments in early literacy, educator pay, and getting cell phones out of schools. He highlighted a $6 million initiative to invest directly into classrooms and emphasized the importance of expanding access to affordable child care. He also called on the legislature to pass a holistic funding reform framework by the summer. 

Healthcare Access & Medical Education:

Governor Meyer outlined urgent action to address Delaware’s healthcare workforce crisis, with a focus on reducing ER wait times and attracting more doctors and nurses, especially in Kent and Sussex Counties. Part of that involves working toward establishing Delaware’s first medical school. The Governor also emphasized expanding mobile health units and streamlining healthcare regulations as a way to expand access to affordable healthcare. He also proposed significant investments in paramedic services and highlighted an innovative “Farm to Pharmacy” program as a model for accessible, community-based care. 

Housing & Homelessness:

With housing costs at crisis levels, Governor Meyer announced he will soon sign an Executive Order to reconstitute the Delaware Interagency Council on Homelessness. He also reaffirmed initiatives to streamline permitting and increase funding for workforce and affordable housing. Governor Meyer’s proposed budget includes additional investments for Downtown Development Districts, replenishing the Housing Development Fund, and investing in providing critical support to Delawareans who need housing. 

Workforce & Economic Development:

The Governor announced plans to streamline workforce programs into a single office with measurable goals. He also highlighted the expansion of EDGE grants and a fresh push to expand the Port of Wilmington, which will generate thousands of union jobs. Governor Meyer said he is committed to unblocking delays in launching the state’s recreational marijuana market and announced he will name a new Marijuana Commissioner in the coming days. 

Government Transparency & Efficiency:

Governor Meyer called for the creation of an independent Inspector General to enhance public accountability and pledged to modernize outdated systems like unemployment insurance and housing permitting. He also reaffirmed support for upgrading and modernizing systems within the state government, like unemployment insurance and permitting processes.