06-R 015

2006 -- H 6760

Enacted 01/10/06

H O U S E R E S O L U T I O N

SUPPORTING UNITED STATES SENATE BILL 1479 AND HOUSE BILL 3427

CONCERNING LYME DISEASE

Introduced By: Representatives Lewiss, Kennedy, McHugh, Shanley, and Lally

Date Introduced: January 10, 2006

     WHEREAS, Assessments have demonstrated a high correlation in the incidence of

disease with the abundance of ticks and their geographic distribution; and

     WHEREAS, The prevention of Lyme Disease and other tick-borne illnesses are best

accomplished by a combination of public awareness, personal protection, and environmental

measures; and

     WHEREAS, Laboratory tests for Lyme Disease and other tick-borne illnesses are not

definitive, and consensus guidelines for diagnosis and treatment of long-term Lyme Disease have

yet to be developed; now, therefore be it

     RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island and

Providence Plantations hereby recognizes the seriousness and prevalence of Lyme Disease and

other tick-borne illnesses in Southern New England; and be it further

     RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives hereby supports federal and regional

efforts and prevention initiatives that will provide a greater understanding of the transmission of

Lyme Disease and other tick-borne illnesses, and requests the Rhode Island Department of Health

to provide for the expansion of efforts concerning the prevention, education and treatment of

Lyme Disease and other tick-borne illnesses; and be it further

     RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives hereby respectfully urges the United

States Congress to vigorously support United States Senate Bill 1479 and House Bill 3427,

introduced to the 109th Congress, and all legislation that provides for the financing, improved

testing, and expansion of Lyme Disease research and treatment efforts; and be it further

     RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and he hereby is authorized and directed to

transmit duly certified copies of this resolution to the Westerly Town Council, the Rhode Island

Department of Health, and the Rhode Island Congressional delegation.

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LC00520

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