Shupe and Richardson Introduce Overtime Tax Relief Bill Aimed at Delaware’s Working Families

 Shupe, a Republican representing the Milford South and Ellendale area, joined Sen. Bryant Richardson in introducing Senate Bill 299, which would create a Delaware personal income tax credit on overtime wages earned beyond a standard 40-hour workweek.

Milford lawmaker says proposal would reward extra hours worked by nurses, factory workers, first responders, and tradesmen

DOVER — State Rep. Bryan Shupe introduced new legislation designed to provide tax relief for Delaware workers who put in long hours to support their families and keep businesses and essential services running.

Shupe, a Republican representing the Milford South and Ellendale area, joined Sen. Bryant Richardson in introducing Senate Bill 299, which would create a Delaware personal income tax credit on overtime wages earned beyond a standard 40-hour workweek.

Under the proposal, eligible workers could receive a state income tax credit of up to $15,000 on overtime income earned under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act. The credit would gradually phase out for individuals earning more than $125,000 annually and couples earning more than $250,000.

Supporters say the legislation is intended to help middle-class Delawareans facing rising costs while rewarding people willing to work additional shifts and overtime hours.

“This legislation puts more money in the pockets of the people who work the hourly jobs that keep our society running — nurses pulling double shifts, factory workers staying late, and every hourly wage-earner sacrificing time with family to bring home a few extra dollars,” Shupe said. “By creating a state tax credit for overtime earnings, we’re recognizing that hard work should be rewarded, not penalized.”

The measure could impact workers across a range of industries common in Sussex and Kent counties, including healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, transportation, public safety, construction and skilled trades.

Richardson said the bill is focused on helping Delawareans who are working beyond a standard workweek while trying to keep pace with inflation and household expenses.

“Too many hardworking Delawareans are struggling with rising costs while sacrificing additional time away from their families through overtime work,” Richardson said. “If someone is working beyond a standard workweek, they deserve to keep more of what they earn.”

For Shupe, whose district includes working-class communities throughout the Milford area and western Sussex County, the proposal aligns with a broader focus on workforce participation and supporting local families dealing with economic pressures.

The legislation has been assigned to the Senate Elections & Government Affairs Committee for consideration.

NOTE:  Rep Bryan Shupe will face 2nd-time challenger, Patrick Smith in a Republican Primary in September.

Staff Writer

Milford LIVE has a team of contributing journalists who cover specific areas of the community.  Our Journalist are professional and are paid for their contributions.  If you have any questions, corrections, or issues, please reach out to our Publisher and Editor, George Rotsch, at George@DelawareLIVE.com.  He can also be reached by phone at 302-354-5730.