Ellmers and Colleagues Continue Efforts to Combat Zika Virus

Statement

Congresswoman Renee Ellmers (R-NC-02) issued the below release after supporting H.R. 897, the Zika Vector Control Act which will remove duplicative and costly requirements that are creating barriers to public health and obstructing the fight against the Zika virus.

"Today the House is helping local and state governments prepare for the summer months -- a time when mosquito season is at its peak and Americans are most at risk for contracting the Zika virus. Under current law, municipalities are spending too much time trying to comply with government permitting programs instead of utilizing mosquito control initiatives to prevent the spread of Zika.

"This legislation, H.R. 897, will remove duplicative government regulations that are standing in the way and will allow local governments to intercede and prevent an outbreak before it's too late. We've seen the health risks that the Zika virus poses, and as a healthcare professional, I'm proud to support legislation that will empower local governments while helping to prevent a public health crisis."

Background:

Pesticides are currently regulated by Federal Fungicide, Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). A 2009 court decision required spraying entities to get a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit under the Clean Water Act on top of FIFRA.

NPDES is duplicative, costly and takes time and money away from those spraying for mosquitos.
- See more at: http://ellmers.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1446#sthash.e69Vmns2.dpuf

Source