MEDIA RELEASE: Senate Republican Leadership Applauds Governor Meyer’s Opposition to Controversial EV Mandate
Senator Pettyjohn’s updated bill to block regulation circulated for co-sponsorship.
DOVER, DE — Citing long-standing public opposition and the need to preserve consumer choice, Senate Republican leadership today expressed their support for Governor Matt Meyer’s stated opposition to Delaware’s electric vehicle (EV) mandate. Following the governor’s comments, Senate Republican Whip Brian Pettyjohn (R-Georgetown) circulated an updated version of 2023’s Senate Bill 96 to block the controversial regulation.
The mandate, initiated by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) under former Governor John Carney, adopts a modified version of California’s Advanced Clean Car II regulations. Under the current regulation, 43% of new vehicles sold in Delaware by model year 2027 must be zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) or plug-in hybrid, with that figure rising incrementally to 82% by 2032.
“This was never about clean air, it was about control,” said Senate Republican Leader Gerald Hocker (R-Ocean View). “Delawareans have made it overwhelmingly clear they do not want an unelected state agency unilaterally dictating what kind of new cars they can or cannot buy.”
Republican lawmakers have opposed the mandate since it was first proposed nearly three years ago. In 2023, more than 93% of the nearly 5,000 public comments submitted to DNREC opposed the mandate. That same year, polling showed 73% of Delaware voters were against adopting California’s vehicle rules, including many who generally support environmental reforms.
“People deserve choices, not mandates,” said Senator Pettyjohn. “EVs may work well for some, but practically forcing them on everyone, especially without the infrastructure in place, is reckless. I thank Governor Meyer for recognizing that and listening to the people of Delaware instead of blindly following California’s lead.”
Senator Pettyjohn’s revised legislation was sent to legislators this afternoon for co-sponsorship consideration.
Senate Republicans reaffirmed their commitment to advancing clean energy solutions that are market-driven, affordable, attainable, and respectful of individual choice.
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This morning, I had the pleasure of meeting with some special guests from Sussex County who were visiting the state capitol. During their tour, they stopped by the Senate Chamber for a visit and conversation. It was great to welcome them to Legislative Hall!
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The Delaware Department of Transportation announces the closure of Deep Branch Road between Zoar Road and Peterkins Road for the replacement of a crossroad pipe.
WHEN: Monday, May 5th through Friday, May 23rd (weather permitting)
WHERE: Deep Branch Road between Zoar Road and Peterkins Road, Georgetown
Detour - Motorists traveling north on Deep Branch Road will continue on Zoar Road and turn right onto Peterkins Road to continue on Deep Branch Road.
Motorists traveling south on Deep Branch Road will turn right onto Peterkins Road and then turn left onto Zoar Road to return to Deep Branch Road.
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www.deldot.gov
News Room, DelDOT, Delaware Department of Transportation, Delaware
TRAFFIC ALERT - Georgetown: All-Way Stop Implementation - Prettyman Road at Pettyjohn Road
The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) will be converting the two way stop control at the intersection of Prettyman Road and Pettyjohn Road to an All-Way Stop control with new signs and pavement markings. The work will occur starting at 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Monday, May 12 (weather permitting). Flaggers will be on-site to direct motorists at the intersection.
Motorists are advised to use caution and reduce their speed in work zones.
For more information, visit DelDOT's website at www.deldot.gov or tune to WTMC-AM 1380.
View full press release at: www.deldot.gov/About/news/index.shtml?dc=release&id=10530
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Delmarva Central Railroad forces will be making crossing repairs and performing general maintenance including paving the approaches at the RR crossing on Wood Branch Road. The work will require the full closure of Wood Branch Road.
WHEN: Beginning at 5:00 am on Friday, May 2, 2025 through Thursday, May 8th.
WHERE: The RR crossing on Wood Branch Road, Georgetown
A vehicular detour will be posted as follows:
Northbound: Wood Branch Road onto Sussex Pines Road to Cedar Lane back to Wood Branch Road
Southbound: Wood Branch Road onto Cedar Lane to Sussex Pines Road back to Wood Branch Road
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News Room
www.deldot.gov
News Room, DelDOT, Delaware Department of Transportation, Delaware
This afternoon, Representative Danny Short and I joined board members and volunteers for the office dedication of the Nanticoke River Watershed Conservancy.
The Conservancy plays an important role in preserving the natural beauty and historic character of the Nanticoke River watershed. Their mission is to “identify, promote and actively seek the acquisition of lands with natural, aesthetic and historic significance in the Nanticoke River watershed and to promote the protection and balanced use of these lands.”
I'm grateful for the work they do to protect one of Sussex County’s most treasured resources and proud to support their efforts moving forward.
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This Easter, we remember the greatest gift of all—love that conquers all. May God’s grace be with you and your family today and always.
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Those closest to the people know what's best for the local communities they serve. That's why our caucus and I believe zoning regulations should be made by municipalities and counties, not by legislators in Dover. SB 75 is the first step in stripping that local authority away.
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The Delaware Department of Transportation announces the closure of Cokesbury Road between Seashore Highway and Hastings Farm Road for the repair of a cross road pipe.
WHEN: Now through Thursday, April 17th (weather permitting)
WHERE: Cokesbury Road between Seashore Highway and Hastings Farm Road, Georgetown
Detour - Cokesbury Road-from Georgetown- Right on Seashore Hwy, left on Gravelly Branch Road, left on Hastings Farm Road.
Cokesbury Road-from Seaford- left on Hastings Farm Road, Right on Gravelly Branch Road, Right on Seashore Hwy.
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News Room
www.deldot.gov
News Room, DelDOT, Delaware Department of Transportation, Delaware
Join DelDOT for a public workshop on the Georgetown Bike & Pedestrian Plan!
Georgetown Public Library
Tuesday, April 29, 2025
4:30–6:30 PM
Drop in anytime to review proposed improvements, ask questions, and share your feedback.
Can’t make it? View materials via the link below and submit comments by mail or email:
DelDOT Community Relations
P.O. Box 778, Dover, DE 19903
Email to dotpr@delaware.gov
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Georgetown Bicycle & Pedestrian Study - PublicInput
publicinput.com
The town of Georgetown DE located in central Sussex County serves as a throughway for accessing Delaware beaches. The Town has experienced rapid growth in recent years that has come with additional de... 
