Strengthening Veterans’ Advocacy in Delaware: Rep. Danny Short Champions New Department of Veterans Affairs

Last week, more than 200 people filled American Legion Post 14 in Smyrna to witness a historic step forward for Delaware veterans. Gov. Matt Meyer signed into law a bipartisan measure that creates a brand-new Department of Veterans Affairs, dedicated to ensuring veterans across the First State receive the services, funding, and advocacy they deserve.

Among the proud sponsors of this legislation was State Rep. Danny Short (R-Seaford), who represents Delaware’s 39th District. Partnering with Rep. Bill Carson (D-Smyrna), Rep. Short helped lead this measure to a unanimous passage in the General Assembly—a strong statement of support for the men and women who served our nation.

A Cabinet-Level Voice for Veterans

For years, veterans in Delaware have lacked a consistent, high-level advocate in state government. Services were spread across multiple agencies, often leaving veterans without a clear path to navigate the benefits they had earned.

“The main issue is that veterans in Delaware have not consistently had a top executive branch official representing them,” said Rep. Short, himself a U.S. Army veteran. “This new secretary will provide both a focal point for veterans’ concerns and enough authority and influence to resolve them.”

By establishing a cabinet-level Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Delaware ensures that veterans’ needs will have a dedicated voice with the authority to act on their behalf.

What This Means for Delaware Veterans

• Dedicated Services: The new department will consolidate programs currently scattered across different state agencies.

• Stronger Advocacy: With a cabinet-level leader, veterans will finally have consistent representation at the highest levels of state government.

• Federal Funding: Supporters note Delaware has been missing out on federal veterans’ funding. With this new structure, the state expects to capture those dollars and reinvest them directly into veterans’ services.

• Cost-Effective Start: Implementation will cost less than $100,000 annually—an investment lawmakers believe will more than pay for itself.

The department will serve over 70,000 veterans statewide, with a transition plan to become fully operational by July 1, 2030.

A Bipartisan Win for the First State

This legislation reflects what can be accomplished when leaders work across party lines to put people first. Rep. Short’s leadership, combined with the support of colleagues in both parties, demonstrates Delaware’s shared commitment to honoring its veterans.

The creation of the Department of Veterans Affairs is not just a policy win—it’s a promise kept to those who wore the uniform.