Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2660

Introduced
2/27/26  

Caption

Creates a tick control program to be implemented by the department of environmental management.

Impact

This bill is significant as it modifies existing health and safety laws to include specific measures for tick control. By designating the Department of Environmental Management as the authority responsible for implementing these measures, S2660 strengthens the state's framework for public health protection. The law allows the department to enter both public and private lands to conduct research, identify tick populations, and advise property owners on management practices. This empowers the state to take proactive steps in combating the rise of tick-related health concerns.

Summary

Bill S2660 establishes a comprehensive program for tick control managed by the Department of Environmental Management. The legislation proposes a structured approach to address tick-related issues on public lands, including the use of acaricides, biological controls, and the management of tick-host animal populations. In addition, the bill mandates educational initiatives to inform landowners about tick habitats and control measures. The aim is to mitigate the prevalence of tick-borne diseases by implementing strategies that are both effective and environmentally responsible.

Contention

Notably, while the bill is aimed at enhancing public health, it might face scrutiny regarding property rights and the extent of government intervention in private lands. Allowing government access to private properties for research and control initiatives could raise concerns among property owners about autonomy and consent. Balancing the need for effective public health measures with respect for individual property rights will be crucial in the discourse surrounding S2660.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0651

Creates rodent integrated pest management pilot programs for municipalities. That choose to participate. Reports would be approved by the municipality's mayor or administrator and would be submitted to the department of environmental management.

RI H5704

Creates rodent integrated pest management pilot programs for municipalities. That choose to participate. Reports would be approved by the municipality's mayor or administrator and would be submitted to the department of environmental management.

RI S0643

Creates a shellfish hatchery program established by the department of environmental management to foster sustainable development and resiliency of the state's shellfish industry.

RI H6326

JOINT RESOLUTION MAKING AN APPROPRIATION OF $2,300,000 TO THE RHODE ISLAND DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT (DEM) TO TRANSPLANT QUAHOGS INTO NARRAGNSETT BAY AND ESTABLISH A SHELLFISH HATCHERY PROGRAM (Authorizes the appropriation of the sum of $2,300,000 to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management for the transplantation of quahogs and the establishment of a shellfish hatchery program.)

RI S0436

Establishes an agricultural restricted receipt account within the department of environmental management. An advisory committee would be established to determine suggested uses of the funds in said account.

RI H5342

Establishes an agricultural restricted receipt account within the department of environmental management. An advisory committee would be established to determine suggested uses of the funds in said account.

RI S0401

Requires the department of transportation, in consultation with the department of environmental management also to conduct an environmental impact study of motor vehicle non-exhaust particle emissions.

RI H5609

Requires the department of transportation, in consultation with the department of environmental management also to conduct an environmental impact study of motor vehicle non-exhaust particle emissions.

RI S0812

Allows the department of environmental management to acquire established foot paths by eminent domain in order to provide public access to streams, rivers, lakes and ponds.

RI H5844

Requires quarterly testing of biosolids for PFAS contaminants by those seeking to apply biosolids to lands, with subsequent reports to the department of environmental management.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.