Illinois welcomed the New Year with the implementation of nearly 300 new laws, with a focus on mosquito abatement. State Senator Steve McClure, representing Springfield, sponsored Senate Bill 3342, which now mandates a 24-hour notice requirement prior to the application of pesticides by state or local governments on public rights-of-way.
State Representative Laura Fine Dias, hailing from Grayslake, shed light on the penalties awaiting local governments that fail to adhere to the new regulation. “A first violation will result in a $250 fine, escalating to $500 for a second offense, and up to $1,000 for a third or subsequent violation,” explained Faver Dias.
During discussions on the bill, State Representative Jeff Keicher of Sycamore sought clarification regarding emergency scenarios that demand immediate action, such as hornets’ nests. Keicher sought assurance that government units would not be penalized under such circumstances. “We want them to be proactive and take action, correct?” inquired Keicher, to which Faver Dias affirmed, adding that the bill includes provisions to address urgent situations like mosquito abatement.
Enforcement of the new mandate falls under the jurisdiction of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, following approval by the General Assembly in the spring and Governor J.B. Pritzker’s signing on August 9.
Another significant law affecting mosquito abatement efforts in Illinois is Senate Bill 2938, sponsored by State Senator Laura Fine of Glenview. This legislation aims to broaden the territories within which a mosquito abatement district can annex additional areas.
State Representative Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz of Glenview, the bill’s House sponsor, highlighted a specific case in Glenview where a previously rural area transitioned to residential status post the establishment of the mosquito abatement district’s boundaries. Gong-Gershowitz underscored that the new law does not mandate communities to be annexed but instead gives residents the authority to decide on expanding the district’s boundaries.
Governor Pritzker endorsed Senate Bill 2938 on August 9, making it one of the 293 new laws that commenced in Illinois on January 1.
These legislative changes reflect Illinois’s commitment to enhancing mosquito abatement strategies and ensuring effective management of public health concerns associated with mosquitoes. The state’s proactive approach in addressing pesticide application and territorial expansions for mosquito abatement districts signifies a concerted effort to safeguard communities against vector-borne diseases and promote environmental sustainability.
