Delaware’s Special Session: Tax Relief & Stronger Schools

On August 12, 2025, Delaware’s legislature will meet in a special session to address the sharp property tax increases hitting many New Castle County homeowners—especially in the school portion of their bill.

While proposals for immediate relief are on the table, this moment is also about something bigger: how state legislators and local school boards can work together to ensure strong, stable, and well-funded public education. When collaboration is a priority, Delaware can achieve shared goals, coordinated planning, and better student outcomes.

Immediate Relief Proposals

Three bills are under consideration to address residents’ concerns:

• HB 242 – Would allow New Castle County school districts to set separate tax rates for residential and commercial properties, rebalancing the tax burden more equitably.

• HB 240 – Guarantees direct refunds for residents who win property assessment appeals and have overpaid by $50 or more.

• HB 241 – Offers interest-free payment plans (with no penalties) for taxpayers whose school tax bill rises by $300 or more, and lowers late fees to 1%, matching Kent and Sussex counties.

These measures aim to provide immediate relief while also reinforcing that funding decisions for public education require close coordination between state and local leaders.

Why Collaboration Matters for Public Education

State leaders, including Speaker Melissa Minor-Brown and Senator David Sokola, have said these relief bills are only the first step. Broader reforms—potentially in early 2026—may address how reassessments are conducted and how school funding can be made more equitable statewide.

Experts have suggested approaches like weighted student funding models and greater state equalization support to reduce overreliance on local property taxes—changes that could improve funding fairness across Delaware.

Do You Want to Read More About It?

Here are some news articles and statements for further reading:

• What changes are on the table for tax relief following reassessment turmoil – Delaware Public Media

• Delaware property tax bills prompt special legislative session – WHYY

• Viewpoint: Property tax reform in Delaware – Delaware Business Times

• Rep. Minor-Brown and Sen. Sokola statement on special session – Delaware House Democrats

• New Castle County Council members weigh public concerns – Delaware Public Media

• KH Group: Property Reassessments & District Tax Rates – First State Educate Knowledge Hub

The August 12 session is more than a tax discussion—it’s a chance to model how state and local leaders can work side-by-side for the good of Delaware’s public schools.

If you live in New Castle County or care about school funding statewide, consider following the session, sharing reliable information with your neighbors, and staying engaged in the conversation about long-term reform. Strong schools depend on clear communication, fair funding, and leadership that works together for every child.