H.R. No. 31 Summary

• Urges the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator to grant an emergency exemption for the insecticide Propoxur to control bedbugs in Ohio

• Notes that since 2005, Ohio has experienced exponential growth in bedbug infestations, with Cincinnati facing an epidemic and Columbus dealing with ever-growing populations

• Identifies current pesticides as insufficient because bedbug populations quickly rebound after spraying cycles end

• States that bedbugs threaten quality of life through allergic reactions, emotional stress, and economic hardship, with potential to discourage visitors and tourism to Ohio

• Directs the House Clerk to transmit copies of the resolution to the EPA Administrator and Ohio news media