Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2660

Introduced
2/27/26  

Caption

RELATING TO HEALTH AND SAFETY -- TICK CONTROL

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 S0898

HEALTH AND SAFETY -- HEALTHCARE WORKER PLATFORM

RI S0117

Sets controls on Medicaid prescription drug costs by imposing transparency and accountability requirements on managed care organizations (MCOs) and their pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs).

RI H5463

Sets controls on Medicaid prescription drug costs by imposing transparency and accountability requirements on managed care organizations (MCOs) and their pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs).

RI H5615

Revises sections of the uniform controlled substances act to remove specific opioid dosage requirements, revises the uniform controlled substances act in accordance with current standards of professional practice and would repeal chapter 37.4 of title 5.

RI H6334

Authorizes municipalities to impose a ticket tax on ticket sales for venues large enough to hold at least eight hundred (800) patrons, seated, of two dollars ($2) per ticket. The tax shall be redistributed to the locality where the venue is located.

RI S1131

Authorizes municipalities to impose a ticket tax on ticket sales for venues large enough to hold at least eight hundred (800) patrons, seated, of seven percent (7%) per ticket. The tax shall be redistributed to the locality where the venue is located.

RI H6026

Amends the uniform controlled substances act and reclassifies simple possession of 28 grams or less of certain controlled substances as a misdemeanor.

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 H5618

RELATED TO HEALTH AND SAFETY -- THE MANDATORY CARRYING OF EPINEPHRINE AUTOINJECTORS BY POLICE OFFICERS ACT

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.