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SR 3344

SENATE RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT TO WORK WITH THE TOWN OF NEW SHOREHAM TO DEVELOP A REGULATORY FRAMEWORK TO REDUCE TICK-BORNE ILLNESS ON BLOCK ISLAND

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Alana DiMario

Direct the creation of a comprehensive, evidence-based regulatory framework to reduce tick-borne illness on Block Island through deer and vector management, safety, data collection

06/04/2026 Senate read and passed
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SR 3344

Overview

  • Type: Senate Resolution (SR 3344)
  • Jurisdiction: Rhode Island
  • Session: 2026
  • Introduced by: Senator Alana DiMario
  • Purpose: Direct the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) to collaborate with the Town of New Shoreham (Block Island) and the Rhode Island Department of Health to develop a regulatory framework aimed at reducing tick-borne illness on Block Island.

Main purpose and intent

  • Recognizes Block Island’s unique status and public health challenge due to high tick-borne illness risk.
  • Aims to create a comprehensive, evidence-based regulatory framework to manage deer populations and other tick-borne illness vectors as a public health intervention.
  • Seeks state–local partnership to implement safe, humane, and effective deer management consistent with wildlife management principles.

Key provisions the bill envisions

The resolution requires the following elements to be included in the regulatory framework:

  1. Deer and vector management strategies

    • Proposals to reduce tick-borne illness vectors, focusing on deer population management.
    • Potential tools listed: licensed hunting, culling programs, fertility control, and exclusion methods suitable for Block Island.

  2. Public safety plan

    • Protocols for coordinating with local law enforcement.
    • Notice requirements for residents and visitors.
    • Operational safety restrictions during deer management activities.

  3. Regulatory authorization mechanism

    • A process for the Town of New Shoreham to apply for, and DEM to issue, wildlife damage permits or other necessary authorizations to conduct approved deer management activities.
    • Maintains flexibility to override general permit restrictions as needed.

  4. Progress reporting

    • Regular reporting to DEM, the Rhode Island Department of Health, and the Rhode Island General Assembly on actions and outcomes.

  5. Ongoing data collection

    • Systematic tracking of deer population trends, tick density and species composition, and illness rates among residents and visitors.
    • Data shared with the Department of Health and other public health entities.

  6. Public education

    • Educational components about tick-borne illness risks and evidence-based prevention measures for residents and visitors.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • DEM, in consultation with the Town of New Shoreham and the Rhode Island Department of Health, must develop the framework.
  • The Secretary of State is directed to transmit certified copies of the resolution to the DEM Director, the Department of Health Director, and the Town Council of New Shoreham.
  • DEM is required to submit a report detailing findings, the proposed framework, and any recommended legislative or administrative actions to the Governor, the Speaker of the House, and the Senate President within six months after adoption of the resolution.

Potential impact and affected stakeholders

  • Block Island residents and visitors: Potential reduction in tick-borne illness risk through coordinated deer management and public health interventions.
  • Town of New Shoreham: Granted pathway to pursue wildlife damage permits and implement deer management activities under a state-approved framework.
  • Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM): Central coordinating agency for developing and implementing the regulatory framework.
  • Rhode Island Department of Health: Partners in health surveillance, data collection, and public education.
  • Public safety and law enforcement: Involvement in the execution and safety protocols of deer management activities.
  • Wildlife management and public health policy: Potentially informed by the framework, including enforcement and administrative actions.

Summary

SR 3344 directs DEM to partner with New Shoreham and the Department of Health to craft a comprehensive, evidence-based regulatory framework aimed at reducing tick-borne illness on Block Island. The framework would outline deer-management strategies, a robust public safety plan, a mechanism for regulatory authorization, ongoing data collection, regular progress reporting, and a public education component. A report detailing the framework and any recommended actions must be submitted within six months of adoption.

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

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