I have lived and worked in Sussex County for most of my life, farmed here, operated a business here, and raised a family here. As an incumbent legislator, I have been guided by core conservative principles that I think reflect the character of our community.

Belief in Small Government

I believe government is best when it governs least. I believe the burden of taxes and fees should be kept to an absolute minimum, which is why I have consistently voted against creating new levies or hiking existing ones.

Reduced Regulations

I believe the regulatory power of state agencies needs to be restrained. Allowing agencies the unfettered power to make rules that carry the weight of law is an infringement on the rights of citizens, who have little input in the process or ability to impact it.

I believe state government is too often focused on carrying out the social agenda of a radical minority, such as was the case with its failed attempt to promulgate a regulation granting special rights to transgender students of any age in our public schools. I believe government should instead be preoccupied with ensuring the safety of its citizens; caring for the vulnerable; removing barriers to free commerce and job creation; and building adequate roads and other needed infrastructure.

Legislative Performance

• Has never voted to increase your taxes.

• Votes to protect the 2nd Amendment.

• Votes to protect private property.

• Believes in keeping constituents fully informed via regular Radio, TV, and Coffee meetings.

It has been a profound honor to serve the people of the 41st District. I hope I can continue to earn that trust.

If you are one who needs constituent service, you can call my cell at 381-1610 or

e-mail.

State Rep. Rich Collins has served the residents of the 41st District since first being elected to office in 2014.

An alumnus of Seaford High School and the University of Delaware, Rep. Collins has decades of experience in the insurance industry. He was employed as an insurance agent, before becoming the owner of Access Insurance & Financial Services – a business he has since sold.

Before taking office, Rep. Collins was active in public policymaking as the founder and chief lobbyist for the Positive Growth Alliance — an organization dedicated to protecting private property rights.

In the General Assembly, Rep. Collins has been an outspoken critic of any government action he perceives as eroding citizens’ freedoms. He has sponsored numerous bills to reduce the tax burden imposed on Delawareans, curtail the regulatory authority of state agencies, and make public officials more accountable to the people they serve.

In addition to his duties as a lawmaker, Rep. Collins is one of the few working farmers serving in the General Assembly, bringing firsthand knowledge to the debate of any legislation potentially impacting Delaware’s largest industry.

Rep. Collins lives with his wife, Susie, in a home near Millsboro Pond.