DE HB296

Adds named executors in a decedent's will to the category of persons eligible to distribute personal estates under $30,000 without court appointment, provided the executor satisfies all qualifications in Delaware Code § 1508.

Establishes priority order for small estate distribution: named qualified executor first, followed by spouse, child, parent, sibling, grandchild, grandparent, or licensed funeral director, with no preference among remaining eligible parties.

Grants named executors and next of kin the right to take possession of the decedent's motor vehicles and remove the decedent's clothing from premises for burial or viewing purposes, with executors having priority over next of kin.

Clarifies that only the Register of Wills may issue the small estate affidavit required to distribute personal estates under $30,000, even though court appointment is not required.

Requires completion of a Register of Wills form prior to taking any action to access motor vehicles or remove clothing under the new provisions.