The Rodent Abatement Through Smart Solutions (RATSS) Amendment Act of 2025 aims to tackle the rodent problem in the District of Columbia by implementing several waste management initiatives. The bill introduces a Residential Rodent Prevention Trash Shed Incentive Program, which provides rebates and vouchers for residents to purchase rodent-proof trash sheds. Additionally, it establishes a public litter container replacement program that will replace existing metal trash cans with more secure, sensor-equipped bins based on community requests. The legislation also proposes a systematic approach to replacing residential trash cans that show signs of rodent damage, prioritizing areas with high rodent-related complaints.
Furthermore, the bill revives the Trash Compactor Grant Program to assist businesses in acquiring commercial trash compactors, which help manage waste more effectively and reduce rodent attraction. The program will provide financial support for businesses to lease or purchase these compactors, ensuring cleaner streets and less rodent access to waste. Overall, the RATSS Amendment Act emphasizes a comprehensive strategy to improve waste management and public health in the District through targeted investments and community engagement.