Two laws, different jobs

Chapter 343 sets housing-plan obligations; Chapter 344 addresses a broader set of land-use and transportation provisions.

SECTION 01

Chapter 343: Housing for Every Delawarean Act

Chapter 343 creates an affordable-housing planning framework for qualifying local jurisdictions. A jurisdiction with more than 2,000 residents that must adopt a comprehensive plan must include an affordable-housing plan. The plan must set measurable objectives, including progress toward a strategic goal of 20% of local housing units qualifying as affordable, diversify housing types and identify production strategies. The law defines affordable rental units using households up to 80% AMI and homeownership units up to 120% AMI. Annual progress reports are scheduled to begin by May 15, 2028.

Source note Official enacted text, Chapter 343

SECTION 02

How the housing plan requirements work

The law lists plan components such as higher residential density, authorization for multiple housing types and review of development standards. It also requires local plans to include at least five additional strategies from a statutory menu, such as density bonuses, transit-oriented zoning, expedited reviews for projects with affordable homes, fee reductions, reuse of commercial space or by-right multifamily zoning in at least one residential zone. The specific package is chosen through each local plan; it is not a single uniform zoning code adopted statewide.
SECTION 03

Chapter 344: Land Use Act

Chapter 344 is HS1 for HB 450, signed July 13, 2026. It amends Titles 9, 17, 22 and 29. Among other changes, it addresses state-highway access standards, a transportation impact-fee program and coordination of land-use and transportation planning. The enacted session law is the definitive source for effective dates, duties and exceptions. Do not assume that every provision was effective on the signing date; consult the specific section.

Source note Official enacted text, Chapter 344 · Governor’s July 2026 legislative advisory

SECTION 04

How to track bills after enactment

An enacted bill becomes a chapter law, but agencies and local governments may still need to adopt regulations, publish guidance, update plans or begin reporting. Follow the bill record, enrolled text, chapter law and subsequent agency notices. For current session activity, use the General Assembly’s official bill search and confirm whether a measure is introduced, amended, passed, signed, vetoed or effective.
SECTION 05

A simple method for reading a law

Start with the long title and synopsis, then locate the operative sections of the enrolled bill. Look for definitions, who must act, what action is required, the deadline, exceptions and the effective-date clause. Legislative findings provide context but do not always create operative duties. When the question is practical or consequential, consult the relevant agency or a qualified attorney.