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S 1527

An Act relative to arbovirus in the Commonwealth

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Ryan Fattman and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts establishes arbovirus surveillance and response protocols to coordinate state and local disease prevention, detection, and management efforts.

Hearing scheduled for 06/11/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-1
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Bill Summary · S 1527

Legislative bill overview

S 1527 addresses arbovirus preparedness and response in Massachusetts, establishing protocols and resources for managing diseases transmitted by arthropod vectors like mosquitoes and ticks (including West Nile Virus, Lyme disease, and Zika). The bill creates a framework for surveillance, prevention, and public health coordination across state agencies and local health departments.

Why is this important

Arboviruses pose genuine public health threats, with West Nile Virus causing periodic outbreaks and Lyme disease being endemic in Massachusetts. A coordinated state response can reduce transmission rates, improve early detection, and ensure consistent messaging and resource allocation across municipalities with varying capacities.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding allocation: The bill's fiscal impact and whether sufficient appropriations accompany the mandates for local health departments
  • Regulatory burden: Potential compliance costs for municipalities and healthcare providers implementing new reporting or surveillance requirements
  • Scope creep concerns: Whether the framework could expand beyond traditional arboviruses to other vector-borne diseases, creating ongoing obligations

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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