Summary of HR 4980 - BITE Act

Overview

The BITE Act, formally known as the Battling Infections Transmitted by Ticks and Exposure Act, was introduced in the House of Representatives on August 15, 2025. The primary aim of this legislation is to address the growing public health concerns related to tick-borne infections, which have been on the rise in recent years.

Purpose and Intent

The BITE Act seeks to enhance federal efforts in combating infections transmitted by ticks, such as Lyme disease and other related illnesses. The bill aims to improve research, prevention, and treatment strategies to mitigate the impact of these infections on public health.

Key Provisions

While the full text of the bill is not yet available, the introduction of the BITE Act indicates a commitment to:

• Increase Funding for Research: Allocate resources for scientific studies focused on tick-borne diseases, including their transmission, prevention, and treatment.

• Public Awareness Campaigns: Develop initiatives to educate the public about the risks associated with tick bites and the importance of prevention measures.

• Collaboration with Health Agencies: Foster partnerships between federal health agencies, state governments, and local organizations to enhance response strategies to tick-borne infections.

Affected Parties

The BITE Act would primarily impact:

• Public Health Officials: Enhanced resources and strategies for managing tick-borne diseases.

• Researchers and Healthcare Providers: Increased funding and focus on tick-related health issues may lead to new treatments and preventive measures.

• General Public: Individuals living in or traveling to areas where ticks are prevalent would benefit from increased awareness and preventive resources.

Legislative Process

• Introduced: August 15, 2025
• Referred to Committee: The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce for further consideration.

Sponsors

The BITE Act is sponsored by:
- Josh Gottheimer (Primary Sponsor)
- Brian K. Fitzpatrick (Cosponsor)
- Don Bacon (Cosponsor)

Conclusion

The BITE Act represents a proactive approach to addressing the challenges posed by tick-borne infections. By focusing on research, public awareness, and collaboration, the legislation aims to reduce the incidence and impact of these diseases on public health. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, further details and specific provisions will be made available.