An Act To Amend Title 17 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The Delaware Byways Program.
The bill effectively removes the statutory framework for the Delaware Byway Advisory Board, indicating a shift in state policy concerning byway management. By concluding that the Board no longer fulfills a significant state need, the Delaware General Assembly is streamlining its governance related to byways. This change means that control over managing the existing byways will be further decentralized, relying more on the self-governed byway management organizations established for each byway.
Senate Bill 138 aims to amend Title 17 of the Delaware Code, specifically regarding the Delaware Byways Program and its associated Advisory Board. The legislation proposes the termination of the Delaware Byway Advisory Board, which was initially established to assist in the designation, development, operation, management, and promotion of designated byways in the state. Formed in 2000, the Board has not held meetings since 2005 and has seen a decline in its relevance over time, as the existing byways are now governed by local management organizations.
The sentiment surrounding SB138 appears to be pragmatic, with the Joint Legislative Oversight and Sunset Committee advocating for the termination as a step to improve efficiency in state governance. By acknowledging that the Board's role is outdated, the legislation reflects a broader intent to prioritize effective resource allocation and oversight rather than to maintain an ineffective advisory structure.
While there may be general support for the bill based on its emphasis on governance efficiency, the deletion of the Advisory Board could lead to concerns over the loss of a centralized body that could have facilitated cooperation among various stakeholders in the transportation and environmental sectors. Stakeholders previously consulted by the Board may now find their interests and voices less represented in the ongoing management of byways, which could potentially lead to contention among entities vested in maintaining or promoting Delaware's scenic and historical highways.