2024 VoteDelaware Questionnaire Responses: Representative Josue Ortega

1. A recent independent report commissioned by the State of Delaware found that public schools across the state are underfunded by $600 million dollars and recommended increased per-pupil funding, transparency, and the flexibility to allocate resources. If elected what concrete steps would you propose to take to ensure districts close the funding deficit to provide a constitutionally adequate education?

As the husband of an educator, I've seen firsthand the impact of funding deficits on our schools. If elected, I'd propose the following concrete steps to ensure districts close the funding deficit and provide a constitutionally adequate education in Delaware:

1. Increase state funding for public education by $150 million annually, targeting high-poverty districts and schools with high concentrations of English language learners.
2. Implement a weighted funding formula that accounts for student needs, poverty, and enrollment, ensuring equitable distribution of resources.
3. Expand the Delaware Opportunity Fund to support innovative programs and initiatives in high-poverty schools, focusing on teacher support, technology, and student services.
4. Introduce a "Funding for Fairness" initiative, providing additional resources to districts with high concentrations of students from low-income families.
5. Strengthen the Delaware Education Funding Improvement Commission, ensuring ongoing evaluation and adjustment of the funding formula.
6. Foster partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and philanthropic entities to secure resources, expertise, and funding for schools.
7. Streamline district administrative costs, redirecting resources to classrooms and student support services.
8. Develop a comprehensive plan to address teacher shortages, including loan forgiveness programs, mentorship initiatives, and competitive compensation packages.
9. Ensure transparency and accountability through regular budget reviews, audits, and public reporting on district funding and academic performance.
10. Collaborate with educators, administrators, and community leaders to develop a "Funding for Excellence" plan, aligning resources with student needs and academic goals.

As the husband of an educator, I understand the importance of adequate funding for our schools. I'll work tirelessly to ensure our districts receive the resources they need to provide a world-class education for every Delaware student.

2. The Education Equity Ombudsperson program was codified into law last year without guaranteed continuing funding to ensure that the program is sustainable.  Will you support legislation to maintain the current annual funding of $1 million to support students statewide facing inequitable treatment? 

YES
Yes, I will support legislation to maintain the current annual funding of $1 million to support students statewide facing inequitable treatment. In fact, I believe we should consider increasing this funding to address the persistent disparities and inequities that exist in our education system.

This funding is crucial for providing targeted support and resources to students who are disproportionately affected by systemic barriers, biases, and discrimination. I believe by maintaining and potentially increasing this funding, we can:

• Address achievement gaps and opportunity gaps
• Provide culturally responsive support services and programs
• Enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives
• Foster safe and inclusive learning environments

I am committed to ensuring that our education system is equitable, just, and provides every student with the resources and support they need to succeed. I will work tirelessly to maintain and increase funding for initiatives that address inequitable treatment and promote excellence for all students.

3. There are currently an estimated 5,000 undocumented children in Delaware living without access to basic healthcare services. This past session, the General Assembly failed to pass the “Cover All Children Act” which would have been a critical first step in developing a medical coverage program for children in Delaware who are not otherwise covered, including kids who are undocumented. Will you support legislation like the “Cover All Children Act” that ensures undocumented children are protected and cared for?  

YES
Absolutely, I wholeheartedly support legislation like the "Cover All Children Act" that ensures undocumented children are protected and cared for. As a Hispanic myself, I understand the importance of providing a safety net for vulnerable populations, especially children.
No child should be denied access to essential services like healthcare, education, and social support due to their immigration status. These children are our future, and it's our responsibility to ensure they receive the care and protection they deserve.

Legislation like the Cover All Children Act is crucial in addressing the unique challenges faced by undocumented children and their families. It's a matter of human decency, compassion, and social justice. As a leader, I will continue to advocate for and support policies that:

• Provide access to healthcare and social services for all children, regardless of immigration status
• Protect undocumented children from deportation and family separation
• Promote inclusive and equitable education systems
• Support family reunification and provide resources for immigrant families

We must prioritize the well-being and dignity of all children, regardless of their background or immigration status.

4. Over the past few decades, many immigrants have chosen to make Delaware their home and have become vital members of our communities. Will you support increasing translation and interpretation services in government agency buildings and in public schools to help immigrants navigate the systems we all use? 

YES
Absolutely, I strongly support. As a Hispanic myself, I understand the challenges that language barriers can pose.

Language access is a fundamental right, and it's essential for ensuring that everyone can fully participate in our society, access essential services, and thrive. By providing translation and interpretation services, we can:

• Break down language barriers and promote inclusivity
• Improve access to healthcare, education, and social services
• Enhance communication between government agencies and the communities they serve
• Support linguistic diversity and cultural competence

As a leader, I will advocate for:

• Mandatory language access training for government agencies and public school staff
• Increased funding for translation and interpretation services
• Development of multilingual materials and websites
• Hiring of bilingual and multilingual staff in key positions

By taking these steps, we can create a more inclusive and equitable environment for everyone, regardless of their language proficiency. It's a matter of social justice, and I'm committed to making it a reality.

5. Currently, agricultural and domestic workers are exempt from state labor protections which means that workers in those fields, many of whom are immigrants and work dangerous jobs, are left with few ways to protect themselves. Will you support the removal of this exemption, so that all workers, regardless of their job, have the same protections? 

YES
Yes, I will support the removal of the exception and advocate for equal protections for all workers, regardless of their job or occupation. Every worker deserves the same level of protection and respect, and it's our responsibility to ensure that our laws and policies reflect this principle.

The current exception creates a two-tiered system, leaving some workers vulnerable to exploitation and mistreatment. By removing this exception, we can:

• Ensure equal protection under the law for all workers
• Prevent exploitation and abuse in the workplace
• Promote fair labor standards and practices
• Support the well-being and dignity of all workers

I believe that every worker, regardless of their job or occupation, deserves:

• Fair compensation and benefits
• Safe working conditions
• Protection from discrimination and harassment
• The right to organize and bargain collectively

I will work tirelessly to remove this exception and ensure that all workers have the same protections and rights.

6. In 2017, Delaware codified the landmark Roe v. Wade decision in state law to ensure the right to an abortion remained protected. However, these protections could be removed through a simple majority vote and signature of the Governor. Will you support a state constitutional amendment to explicitly protect peoples’ access to reproductive healthcare?

YES
Yes, I would support a state constitutional amendment to explicitly protect people's access to reproductive healthcare. Reproductive rights are fundamental human rights, and it's essential to ensure that individuals have autonomy over their own bodies, health, and well-being.

A constitutional amendment would provide a critical safeguard against efforts to restrict or deny access to essential healthcare services, including abortion, contraception, and maternal healthcare. It would:

• Protect individuals from government overreach and political interference
• Guarantee equal access to reproductive healthcare for all, regardless of income, location, or identity
• Uphold the principles of privacy, dignity, and self-determination

I believe that reproductive healthcare is a fundamental right, and I will advocate for measures that:

• Protect and expand access to reproductive healthcare services
• Ensure affordability and accessibility for all individuals
• Promote comprehensive reproductive health education and awareness
• Support the reproductive autonomy and decision-making of individuals and families

By supporting this constitutional amendment, we can enshrine reproductive rights in our state's foundation and guarantee that individuals have access to the care they need to thrive.

7. Black maternal mortality rates continue to increase in Delaware, with the gap in healthcare disparities widening. Will you support the creation of a Reproductive Healthcare Equity Fund that would support the additional costs of accessing reproductive healthcare for uninsured or underinsured people and fund the recruitment and expansion of the number of healthcare providers, including doula providers, in the state? 

YES
Yes, I will support the creation of a Reproductive Healthcare Equity Fund to address the disparities in accessing reproductive healthcare, particularly for uninsured or underinsured individuals. This fund would help bridge the gap in access to essential healthcare services, ensuring that everyone can receive the care they need, regardless of their financial situation or insurance status. The fund should aim to:

• Cover additional costs associated with accessing reproductive healthcare, such as transportation, childcare, and lodging
• Support the recruitment and expansion of healthcare providers, including doula providers, to increase access to care, especially in underserved areas
• Address systemic barriers and biases in healthcare delivery
• Promote culturally competent and inclusive care

By establishing this fund, we can:

• Reduce health disparities and improve health outcomes
• Enhance access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare, including abortion, contraception, and maternal healthcare
• Empower individuals to make informed decisions about their reproductive health
• Foster a more equitable and just healthcare system

I will advocate for the reproductive healthcare equity fund to be adequately funded, transparent in its allocation, and accountable to the communities it serves. Ensuring access to reproductive healthcare is a matter of social justice, and I am committed to making it a reality.

8. Delaware’s probation system is broken. It does not provide the resources and support needed for successful reentry, while allowing for overly harsh punishment for minor infractions. Will you support legislation tailoring probation conditions to the needs and circumstances of the individual and restricting the use of incarceration when no new crime has been committed?  

YES
Absolutely, I will support legislation that tailors probation conditions to the needs and circumstances of individuals and restricts the use of incarceration when no new crime has been committed. Our criminal justice system should prioritize rehabilitation, restorative justice, and community safety over unnecessary punishment and incarceration.

Tailoring probation conditions to individual needs and circumstances can help reduce recidivism, improve rehabilitation outcomes, and address underlying issues such as substance abuse, mental health, or employment challenges.

Restricting the use of incarceration for technical violations or minor infractions, when no new crime has been committed, can help:

• Reduce mass incarceration and its disproportionate impact on communities of color
• Address the root causes of recidivism
• Preserve family unity and community ties
• Save taxpayer dollars and allocate resources more effectively

I will advocate for legislation that:

• Incorporates evidence-based practices and risk assessments in probation decisions
• Provides access to treatment, counseling, and support services for individuals on probation
• Limits incarceration for technical violations, focusing on community-based solutions instead
• Promotes restorative justice and victim-offender mediation

By supporting this legislation, we can create a more just, equitable, and effective criminal justice system that prioritizes rehabilitation, community safety, and human dignity.

But in tailoring the solutions, it is important to involve all parties with an interest in the criminal justice system (justice-involved persons, victims and victim advocates, DOC, law enforcement, and others) in a common discussion in order to develop appropriate steps going forward. 

9. Access to record expungement should not be determined by an individual’s economic circumstances. Will you support legislation removing fines and fees as a barrier to expungement eligibility? 

YES
Yes, I will support legislation removing fines and fees as a barrier to expungement eligibility. It's unjust to deny individuals a second chance due to unpaid fines and fees, which can perpetuate cycles of poverty and limit opportunities for rehabilitation.

Expungement should be accessible to those who have earned it, regardless of their financial situation. By removing fines and fees as a barrier, we can:

• Promote rehabilitation and reintegration into society
• Address the disproportionate impact on low-income communities and communities of color
• Reduce recidivism and improve public safety
• Support economic mobility and stability

I will advocate for legislation that:

• Removes fines and fees as a requirement for expungement eligibility
• Allows for expungement regardless of outstanding fines and fees
• Provides alternative paths for individuals to demonstrate rehabilitation, such as community service or counseling
• Ensures equal access to expungement for all individuals, regardless of financial means

By supporting this legislation, we can create a fairer and more compassionate justice system that prioritizes rehabilitation and second chances.

10. It is well documented that older incarcerated adults are less likely to commit new crimes if released. Will you support legislation that would expand compassionate release for older incarcerated adults? 

YES
Yes, I will support legislation that expands compassionate release for older incarcerated adults. As our prison population ages, it's crucial to address the unique challenges and needs of older adults behind bars.

Compassionate release is a humane and sensible approach that allows for the early release of older adults who no longer pose a risk to public safety, often due to declining health or age-related infirmities. Expanding compassionate release can:

• Reduce healthcare costs associated with aging prisoners
• Address overcrowding and alleviate pressures on our prison system
• Reunite families and promote social support networks
• Provide a second chance for redemption and rehabilitation

I will advocate for legislation that:

• Expands eligibility for compassionate release to include more older adults
• Streamlines the application process to reduce bureaucratic delays
• Ensures access to necessary healthcare and support services upon release
• Provides resources for reentry and reintegration into society

By supporting this legislation, we can prioritize compassion, dignity, and rehabilitation for older incarcerated adults, while also addressing the fiscal and social implications of an aging prison population.

11. The Delaware Supreme Court recently upheld Delaware’s early in-person and permanent absentee voting laws, but the laws remain vulnerable to future legal challenges. Will you support protecting early in-person and permanent absentee voting through a constitutional amendment? 

YES
Yes, I will support protecting early in-person and permanent absentee voting through a constitutional amendment. Ensuring access to convenient and flexible voting options is crucial for promoting voter participation, reducing barriers to voting, and upholding the fundamental right to vote.

A constitutional amendment would safeguard early in-person and permanent absentee voting from potential legislative or administrative changes, ensuring that:

• Eligible voters can cast their ballots in person before Election Day
• Voters can request absentee ballots without needing an excuse
• Permanent absentee voter status is protected for those who opt-in

By enshrining these protections in our state constitution, we can:

• Preserve voting rights and accessibility for all eligible citizens
• Encourage increased voter turnout and participation
• Reduce lines and wait times on Election Day
• Enhance the integrity and security of our elections

I believe that voting should be easy, convenient, and accessible for all. I will advocate for this constitutional amendment to protect and expand voting rights, ensuring that our democracy remains vibrant and inclusive.

12. As of 2022, felony disenfranchisement affected 7,721 voters in Delaware. 2,965 of these people were disenfranchised while on probation or parole and 1,360 were disenfranchised even though they were not incarcerated or on probation or parole. . Voting allows people to remain connected to their communities and helps facilitate the re-entry process. Will you support a constitutional amendment allowing all people to vote as soon as they leave prison? 

YES
Yes, I will support a constitutional amendment allowing all people to vote as soon as they leave prison. This reform would help restore voting rights, promote rehabilitation, and ensure that all citizens can fully participate in our democracy.

By automatically restoring voting rights upon release from prison, we can:

• Encourage civic engagement and responsibility among formerly incarcerated individuals
• Help rebuild lives and reintegrate into society
• Address systemic injustices and disparities in the criminal justice system
• Strengthen our democracy by expanding the electorate

This amendment would align with the principles of redemption, forgiveness, and equal rights. It would also bring our state in line with others that have already taken steps to restore voting rights to citizens who have completed their sentences.

I believe that voting is a fundamental right, essential for full participation in our society. I will advocate for this constitutional amendment to promote justice, equality, and democratic inclusion.

13. Will you support a constitutional amendment allowing for same-day voter registration? 

YES
Yes, I will support a constitutional amendment allowing for same-day voter registration. This reform would help increase voter participation, reduce barriers to voting, and ensure that all eligible citizens can exercise their fundamental right to vote.

Same-day voter registration would enable citizens to register and cast their ballots on the same day, eliminating unnecessary hurdles and deadlines. This would:

• Increase voter turnout and participation, especially among underrepresented groups
• Reduce voter registration disparities and errors
• Enhance the accuracy and efficiency of voter rolls
• Align our state with best practices in voter registration modernization

By supporting this constitutional amendment, we can:

• Strengthen our democracy and promote civic engagement
• Ensure equal access to the ballot for all eligible citizens
• Foster a more inclusive and representative electorate
• Uphold the principles of voter empowerment and equality

I believe that voting should be easy, accessible, and inclusive. I will advocate for this constitutional amendment to modernize our voter registration system and expand voting rights.

14. Will you support a constitutional amendment allowing for no-excuse absentee voting? 

YES
Yes, I will support a constitutional amendment allowing for no-excuse absentee voting. This reform would make voting more convenient, accessible, and flexible for all citizens, regardless of their circumstances.

No-excuse absentee voting would enable voters to cast their ballots by mail or in person without needing a specific reason or justification. This would:

• Increase voter participation and turnout
• Reduce lines and wait times on Election Day
• Accommodate voters with busy schedules, disabilities, or conflicting obligations
• Enhance the integrity and security of our elections

By supporting this constitutional amendment, we can:

• Modernize our voting system and align with best practices
• Expand access to the ballot for all eligible citizens
• Promote voter convenience and flexibility
• Strengthen our democracy by encouraging participation

I believe that voting should be easy, accessible, and inclusive. I will advocate for this constitutional amendment to make voting more convenient for all citizens.