Summary: SR 3344, introduced by Senator Alana DiMario on June 03, directs the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) to collaborate with the Town of New Shoreham to create a regulatory framework aimed at reducing tick-borne illnesses on Block Island. The resolution addresses the unique challenges faced by the island community, including a high population of deer that contributes to elevated tick populations and increased rates of tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease among residents and visitors. It emphasizes the need for effective deer population management as a public health intervention and acknowledges DEM's authority in wildlife management.

The proposed regulatory framework will include strategies for managing deer populations, a public safety plan for any management activities, a mechanism for issuing wildlife damage permits, and a method for tracking progress and outcomes related to deer and tick populations. Additionally, it will incorporate a public education component to raise awareness about tick-borne illness risks. DEM is required to report its findings and recommendations to state leadership within six months of the resolution's adoption, ensuring a structured approach to addressing this public health concern on Block Island. The resolution has been placed on the Senate Consent Calendar.