Rep. Stell Parker Selby, D-Milton, was officially sworn in to her office March 24, according to a press release issued by House Majority leadership.

Parker Selby has yet to attend a legislative session, and was absent during the opening day of the 153rd General Assembly in January when her colleagues took oaths of office. She was also absent when the House convened March 25. 

Speaker of the House Rep. Melissa Minor-Brown, D-New Castle, said Parker Selby’s official swearing in solidifies her “role as a duly elected representative of the 20th District.”

The state GOP released a statement a week ago questioning Parker Selby’s absence. Democrat House caucus officials say Parker Selby’s office has remained open to address constituent cases and community concerns; however, there has been no response to repeated calls to her home and cellphone numbers. 

Jenevieve Worley, director of communications for the House Majority Caucus, said Parker Selby was sworn in at her home.

“Accountability and transparency matter in public service, but so do compassion and empathy. As we have demonstrated for all members in our chamber, regardless of party, elected officials are people first, and they deserve grace and understanding, especially when facing personal medical challenges,” said Minor-Brown in a press release. “I’m grateful we were able to follow a process that respected both Rep. Parker Selby’s health and her duty to serve, and I look forward to seeing her back at Legislative Hall as soon as possible.”