DE HB171

High school students may now earn up to 1 elective Delaware Volunteer credit by volunteering with local fire departments, in addition to organizations approved by the Delaware Office of Volunteerism or Department of Education

Schools offering volunteer credit must inform students about the option to earn credit through volunteer work, including opportunities with local fire departments, at or before the time of class selection

Students in grades 9-12 must complete at least 45 hours of volunteer service per semester for 2 semesters to receive the credit, which can count toward graduation requirements if approved by the school principal

Volunteer hours must be performed outside of required school attendance hours and cannot be political or advocacy-related

The Department of Education is granted regulatory authority to implement the chapter and develop necessary rules