April 30, 2012

MOSQUITO CONTROL LEGISLATION WILL AID WEST RIVER AREA
Legislation introduced by Dillon and Harp

Rep. Pat Dillon (D-New Haven), citing the death of a constituent in 2006 from West Nile virus, has filed an amendment to increase mosquito control efforts in the West River neighborhood of New Haven.

Due to its proximity to wetlands and water, the West River area has a high density of mosquitoes and mosquito breeding grounds.

Over the years responsibility for mosquito control has shifted from the state Department of Public Health to the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP).

“Mosquito control must remain a priority,” Rep. Dillon said. “Just last year cuts were proposed to the Agriculture Experiment Station. We want to make sure the state is committed to protecting public health.”

The legislation would ensure the state inspects land, wetlands and watercourses in and around the West River neighborhood and take steps to eliminate mosquito breeding areas. DEEP and the New Haven Health Department would be charged with enforcing a ban on standing water – a breeding ground for mosquitoes – even on private property.

Outreach and education would also improve under the legislation. DEEP and the city Health Department would educate property owners of the risks of standing water and the signs and symptoms of West Nile virus.

The legislation, introduced by Rep. Dillon and Sen. Toni Harp (D-New Haven), was proposed as an amendment to HB 5260.