Governor Matt Meyer signed the Delaware Local Business Protection Act into law, establishing new measures to support small and locally owned businesses.

Key provisions: a 5% Local Business Preference on state contracts under $500,000; Commercial Rent Stabilization requiring 90 days notice for rent increases exceeding 10%; a $3 million Small Business Legal Defense Fund providing free or reduced-cost legal representation; and a ‘Delaware Local’ certification for businesses headquartered in-state with 50%+ in-state employees.

The bill passed with bipartisan support. The Delaware State Chamber of Commerce praised it as ‘a meaningful step toward leveling the playing field for local entrepreneurs.’

Businesses can apply for certification at business.delaware.gov starting September 1.