Dover Rejects Panhandling Ban, State Proposes New Rules

City Council votes down proposal, but Attorney General's Office recommends state legislation to address intersection panhandling.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Dover City Council voted 6-3 against a proposal to ban panhandling at intersections, despite concerns from some council members about public safety. The Delaware Attorney General's Office has recommended model state legislation to address the issue, which may be taken up by the state legislature.

Why it matters

The debate in Dover highlights the ongoing challenges cities face in balancing public safety, civil liberties, and support for the homeless. The Attorney General's recommendation for state-level action suggests a need for a more coordinated, statewide approach to the issue of panhandling.

The details

The Dover council proposal would have prohibited panhandling on medians at intersections and giving donations to panhandlers at intersections. Supporters cited safety concerns for drivers and pedestrians, while opponents argued it would criminalize homelessness. After months of debate, the council ultimately voted down the proposal 6-3. In response, the Delaware Attorney General's Office has recommended 'model legislation' to the state legislature that would prohibit panhandling at intersections, with exceptions for those lawfully crossing the street.

  • On October 25, council member David L. Anderson introduced the proposal to ban panhandling at intersections.
  • On February 25, the Dover City Council voted 6-3 against the proposal.
  • In February 2024, the Delaware Attorney General's Office issued guidance to law enforcement to stop enforcing the state's loitering and solicitation laws.
  • In February 2026, the Delaware Chief Deputy Attorney General recommended 'model legislation' to the state legislature to address panhandling at intersections.

The players

David L. Anderson

A Dover City Council member who introduced the proposal to ban panhandling at intersections.

Fred Neil

The Dover City Council President, who voted in favor of the panhandling ban proposal.

Kathleen Jennings

The Delaware Attorney General who, in 2024, directed police to stop enforcing the state's loitering and solicitation laws.

Dan Logan

The Delaware Chief Deputy Attorney General who recommended 'model legislation' to the state legislature to address panhandling at intersections.

Bryan Townsend

The Delaware State Senate Majority Leader, who said the legislature must update the state's anti-loitering law to align with constitutional principles.

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What they’re saying

“I am disappointed.”

— David L. Anderson, Dover City Council member (delawareonline.com)

“Some people claim that this is criminalizing homelessness. That's nonsense. People are free to safely panhandle and people can legally park and respond.”

— David L. Anderson, Dover City Council member (delawareonline.com)

“We look forward to continuing this discussion this session and working toward a thoughtful solution that reflects compassion for those experiencing homelessness.”

— Bryan Townsend, Delaware State Senate Majority Leader (delawareonline.com)

What’s next

The Delaware General Assembly is expected to consider the 'model legislation' recommended by the Attorney General's Office during the current legislative session.

The takeaway

The debate in Dover highlights the ongoing challenges cities face in balancing public safety, civil liberties, and support for the homeless. The state's involvement suggests a need for a more coordinated, statewide approach to address panhandling at intersections.