DOVER, Del. (AP) - The state Senate has narrowly approved a bill preventing the Markell administration from privatizing operations at the Port of Wilmington without the consent of the General Assembly.
The bill approved on an 11-to-9 vote Wednesday prevents the state-controlled Diamond State Port Corporation from entering into any agreement to privatize or lease the port without first obtaining approval from the House and Senate.
State economic development director Alan Levin urged senators to delay action on the bill, saying it could upset delicate negotiations with Houston-based energy company Kinder Morgan. Levin said Kinder Morgan was wrapping up its due diligence and that officials hoped to have a final offer from the company soon.
Lawmakers have expressed concerns that a for-profit corporation might cut jobs if it takes over the port.
