DE HB39

Creates the Expanded Protection for Our Communities and Homes (EPOCH) Grant Program with a one-time $20 million appropriation to the Department of Safety and Homeland Security.

Distributes $50,000 to each of 47 participating Delaware law enforcement agencies (unless they opt out), with remaining funds distributed on a per capita basis based on the number of authorized uniformed officers as of July 1, 2023.

Grants may be used for recruiting officers, promoting law enforcement careers, paying new officer salaries, funding overtime for traffic enforcement and other community concerns, and implementing public safety programs.

Agencies must report spending and encumbered funds within 15 business days at the end of fiscal years 2024, 2025, and 2026; the Department compiles reports for legislative and public distribution.

Unspent and unencumbered funds remaining on July 1, 2026 must be returned to the General Fund; agencies are solely responsible for continuing financial obligations created by their grant use.