PUBLIC INPUT REGARDING DHSS REGULATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED THROUGH DEC. 1

DOVER (Nov. 8, 2012) - The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services today issued a reminder to Delaware business owners and other interested stakeholders that it is still accepting public comment under Governor Markell's Executive Order 36, which requires agencies to identify unnecessary or overly burdensome regulations to be streamlined or eliminated.

DHSS announced that public comments will be accepted online through Dec. 1. Individuals who wish to submit comments have the option of doing so using the agency's online submission form or by mailing comments to DHSS, Office of the Secretary, c/o Jill Fredel, Main Administration Building, 1901 N. DuPont Highway, New Castle, DE 19720.

"We need the public's help in identifying regulations to streamline or eliminate," said Rita Landgraf, secretary of the Department of Health and Social Services. "The public hearings we held in each county were a great first step in ensuring the voices of our residents and businesses were heard. By offering the public a chance to provide additional feedback online, we hope to capture as many responses as possible."

Executive Order 36 is a mechanism for agencies to review existing regulations and eliminate outdated, inconsistent, or regulations that no longer serve their purpose. DHSS held public hearings in each county on Sept. 24-25, Oct. 1-2 and Oct. 8-9. After Dec. 1, the agency will consider the input received and streamline or change regulations accordingly. In June 2013, the Governor's Office will submit a report to the General Assembly detailing the regulatory changes made by each agency.

For more information about the review process or to find the online or printable form, go to: dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.