Bill > S1598

This bill establishes a special commission to study and develop best practices for educating the public about Lyme disease and preventing its transmission. The commission will be composed of diverse stakeholders, including the secretary of health and human services, the commissioner of public health, a representative from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), two representatives and two senators (ensuring bipartisan representation), and one member who has personally been diagnosed with Lyme disease. The commission is required to convene its first meeting by December 1, 2025, and must submit comprehensive recommendations and draft legislation to the House and Senate clerks and the joint committee on mental health and substance abuse by July 1, 2026. The goal of the commission is to create a statewide education and awareness program focused on preventing the contraction of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses, addressing a significant public health concern that impacts many individuals in regions with tick populations.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1598