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Delaware National Guard warns of federal cuts as JFC vets FY27 requests
Summary
The Delaware National Guard told the Joint Finance Committee its federal funding could fall about $7 million (a 5.1% reduction), trimming its projected budget from roughly $132 million to $125 million; the Guard asked the state to fund operating costs for a new River Road Readiness Center and highlighted readiness and youth programs.
General Benson, leader of the Delaware National Guard, told the Joint Finance Committee on Feb. 18 that a projected 5.1% reduction in federal funding will lower the Guard’s budget from about $132 million to $125 million and create challenges for readiness and long‑term sustainability.
The Guard’s FY26 base and FY27 operating requests include 98.5 NSF FTEs and 31.5 general‑fund positions at the state level; General Benson said federal funds remain the dominant funding source for most soldiers and airmen. He identified a $31,000 door‑opener request to cover operating costs—energy, utilities and maintenance—for the River Road Readiness Center in New Castle, expected to open in 2026.
Why it matters: Delaware’s Guard performs both state and federal missions—from hurricane response and winter storm assistance to overseas deployments—and relies on a mix of federal and state support. The projected federal reduction is small relative to total funding but could constrain discretionary activities, specialized training and planned enhancements that support domestic emergency response and interagency coordination.
Committee members pressed staff and the Guard on where cuts would fall; OMB staff explained the governor’s office sought to protect minimum mandatory activities while trimming extras, and General Benson said mandatory monthly training and annual training would be preserved. The Guard reported five voluntary separations tied to prior personnel reductions and said mandatory minimums are funded while previously nonessential items were pared back.
The Guard also said the youth program—22 weeks, tuition‑free for at‑risk youth—continues to show outcomes, including GED attainment and workforce advancement, and cited the Jeep enlistment referral incentive as a successful recruitment tool supported in part with state funds.
What’s next: The committee flagged follow‑up requests for clarity on contingency plans for non‑recommended contractual services and asked for updated federal funding projections. The Guard stood ready to answer additional operational questions as the budget process continues.
