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S 7651

Requires the commissioner of labor to develop instructional tools and materials for industries at high-risk for occupational tick exposures

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jeremy Cooney and 1 co-sponsor

S 7651 - Occupational Tick Exposure Prevention Act OverviewBill Number: S 7651 Title: Requires the commissioner of labor to develop instructional tools and materials for industrie

REFERRED TO LABOR
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Bill Summary · S 7651

S 7651 - Occupational Tick Exposure Prevention Act

Overview

Bill Number: S 7651
Title: Requires the commissioner of labor to develop instructional tools and materials for industries at high-risk for occupational tick exposures
Status: REFERRED TO LABOR
Introduced: April 25, 2025

Purpose and Intent

This bill aims to address the growing public health concern of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses by requiring the state labor commissioner to develop educational resources for industries with high risk of occupational tick exposure. The goal is to provide workers and employers with the knowledge and tools to better prevent, identify, and respond to tick-related health issues.

Key Provisions

  • Directs the labor commissioner to identify industries with high risk of tick exposure, such as forestry, landscaping, outdoor recreation, and certain agricultural sectors
  • Requires the commissioner to develop and distribute instructional materials, including:
    • Tick identification and prevention guidance
    • Proper tick removal and first aid procedures
    • Symptoms of tick-borne illnesses and when to seek medical care
    • Employer policies and worker training recommendations
  • Mandates that the commissioner update the materials at least every 2 years to reflect the latest scientific information and best practices

Affected Parties and Impacts

This bill would directly impact workers in industries with elevated tick exposure risks, as well as their employers. Providing standardized educational resources is intended to:

  • Increase awareness and prevention of tick-borne diseases among at-risk workers
  • Improve early detection and treatment of tick bites and illnesses
  • Reduce the health and productivity impacts of tick-related illnesses
  • Support employers in developing effective policies and training programs

Ultimately, the goal is to protect worker health and safety while also mitigating the broader public health burden of tick-borne diseases.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

S 7651 has been referred to the state Senate Labor Committee for consideration. If passed by the committee, it would then proceed to a full Senate vote. The bill's timeline and prospects for enactment remain uncertain at this stage, but the issue of occupational tick exposure is gaining increasing attention and legislative focus.

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

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