(TRENTON) – Taking action to ensure tick and mosquito populations are monitored and controlled in New Jersey, the Assembly Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee advanced two bills on Monday.
The first measure (A-3574), sponsored by Assemblyman Eric Houghtaling, chair of the Agriculture Committee, would appropriate $250,000 from the General Fund to the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station at Rutgers University to monitor, study, and control tick populations.
“With reports of ticks and other invasive species on the rise, it’s imperative that we take action to prevent and control the spread of these potentially harmful species in our state,” said Houghtaling (D-Monmouth). “This bill is an investment in our health and our environment.”
The second bill (A-5326), also sponsored by Houghtaling and Assemblywoman Eliana Pintor Marin, would appropriate $1.5 million from the General Fund to the New Jersey State Mosquito Control Commission.
“Every New Jerseyan knows how bothersome mosquitos can be in the warmer months. However, mosquitos can be more than just a nuisance – in fact, some carry dangerous viruses that can be very harmful to humans,” said Pintor Marin (D-Essex). “Since 1956, the State Mosquito Control Commission has helped protect residents of our state from these pests, and this measure will ensure their important work can continue.”
The bills now go to the Assembly Speaker for further review.