DE SB263

Establishes the Lewis M. "Skipper" Purnell Cultural Resources Memorial Scholarship to enable academically talented Delawareans to pursue careers as cultural resource professionals.

Awards scholarships for graduate education in museum studies and degrees meeting U.S. Secretary of Interior Historic Preservation Professional Qualifications Standards in history, architectural history, or archaeology, with preference for persons currently employed by Delaware public or nonprofit museums, government cultural resource agencies, or Delaware Museum Association members.

Allows scholarships for bachelor's degrees prior to a master's degree or doctoral degrees following a master's degree, limited to persons employed for a minimum of 6 months in eligible Delaware cultural resource positions.

Considers community service, academic achievement, and financial need in selection criteria, with award renewal limited to the standard full-time completion rate for the degree program.

Takes effect upon enactment of House Bill No. 480, with scholarships first awarded in the 2023-2024 school year.