WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SD 987

An Act relative to cimex lectularius

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by John Keenan

This bill requires prompt reporting, inspection, and treatment of bed bug infestations, with property owners responsible for costs, to mitigate the growing problem statewide.

0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SD 987

Summary of Bill SD 987: An Act relative to cimex lectularius

Bill Overview

This proposed bill, introduced on November 29, 2025, aims to address the growing problem of bed bug infestations in the state. The primary purpose of the legislation is to establish a comprehensive framework for the prevention, management, and eradication of bed bug infestations in residential and commercial properties.

Key Provisions

The main components of the bill include:

  1. Mandatory Reporting: The bill would require property owners and managers to report the presence of bed bugs in their properties within 48 hours of discovery. Failure to report would result in monetary penalties.

  2. Inspection and Treatment: The bill would empower state and local health departments to conduct mandatory inspections of properties suspected of bed bug infestations. Property owners would be required to take immediate action to treat and eradicate bed bugs, with the costs covered by the owner.

  3. Tenant Responsibilities: Tenants would be required to cooperate with property owners and health officials during the inspection and treatment process. This includes providing access to the property, preparing the unit for treatment, and properly disposing of infested items.

  4. Educational Initiatives: The bill would mandate the development and distribution of educational materials to inform the public about bed bug identification, prevention, and proper treatment methods.

  5. Enforcement and Penalties: The bill would establish fines and other penalties for non-compliance with the reporting, inspection, and treatment requirements. Repeat offenders could face escalating punishments.

Potential Impact

If enacted, this legislation would have several significant impacts:

  • It would help mitigate the growing bed bug problem in the state by requiring prompt action from property owners and providing health authorities with the necessary tools to address infestations.
  • Tenants would benefit from improved living conditions and reduced risk of bed bug exposure, though they would also face new responsibilities and potential costs.
  • Property owners would incur the financial burden of mandatory inspections and treatments, which could be a significant expense, especially for owners of multiple properties.
  • State and local health departments would take on additional responsibilities for conducting inspections and enforcing the new regulations, potentially requiring additional resources and staffing.

Overall, the bill aims to provide a comprehensive, statewide approach to addressing the bed bug crisis and reducing the negative impacts on both residential and commercial properties.

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

Sign in to ask a question.