Delaware’s 2027 budget: More money for schools, childcare and healthcare

Delaware is getting ready to spend $196 million more than last year to improve education and healthcare. Lawmakers met recently to finalize the budget before the June deadline. Most of this money will go toward schools and childcare, but experts say the plan still has gaps. Childcare workers will see some changes, like higher pay for those helping young kids. The state plans to spend $26. 4 million on childcare policies, which is $1 million more than the governor suggested. This helps families earning under $74, 250 a year cover daycare costs. But some critics call it “just for show” since leaders haven’t clearly explained how it works.Schools are getting big upgrades too. A total of $146 million will help fix how Delaware funds public schools, based on recommendations from a special education commission. Teachers will also get raises, with some seeing more than the standard 3%. Right now, Delaware teachers start at around $49, 000—well below the national average. Healthcare is another focus. Medicaid costs will rise by $128. 5 million, but new federal rules could make Delaware pay more for food aid and healthcare programs. Some worry this will leave fewer people covered. Still, $54 million will go toward keeping hospitals stable. Housing help is also part of the plan. A small but important $800, 000 will give vouchers to 50 families with kids in unstable housing. They’ll have to work or look for jobs to keep the voucher, which covers about $1, 250 a month in rent.