Res. No. 400
Resolution calling upon the appropriate committee of the Council to hold a hearing to examine the role that the sale of used mattresses play in the recent surge in bedbug infestations.
By Council Members Perkins, Comrie, Quinn and Vann
Whereas, Bedbugs, scientifically named Cimex lectularius, are oval, wingless insects that are about a quarter inch long and reddish-brown in color; and
Wheareas, According to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), early infestations of bedbugs are found around the tufts, seems, and folds of mattresses and daybed covers, later spreading to cracks and crevices in the bedspreads and, if permitted to proliferate, eventually establishing themselves behind baseboards, window and door casings, pictures, and moldings, and in furniture, loosened wallpaper, and cracks in plaster and partitions; and
Whereas, Although bedbugs feed largely on blood of humans, they also feed on other mammal and birds; and
Whereas, According to the University of Kentucky’s Entomology Program, bedbugs are not assumed to transmit diseases, though they often leave their hosts with itching and inflammation due to bites; and
Whereas, DOHMH recommends several methods to reduce the infestation of bedbugs including: washing affected parts of bedrooms where the bugs are likely to be found, such as bedding, linens and curtains, with hot water and drying them to kill the bedbugs, wiping away all dust from the bed frame, other nearby furniture and the floors, vacuuming carpets and mattresses well, and using an over-the-counter bedding spray or calling a licensed professional exterminator; and
Whereas, An entomologist at Cornell University stated in a May 30, 2004, Daily News article entitled, “Bedbugs Blitz City” (the “Daily News article”), that complaints about the bedbugs are increasing in hotels and buildings; and
Whereas, A nationwide survey performed by Pest Control Technology magazine conveyed that there was a 19% increase in bedbug complaints during an 18-month time frame from summer 2003 to winter 2004; and
Whereas, A May 19, 2004 ABC News segment entitled, “Return of the Bedbugs” (the “ABC News segment”), attributes increased world travel to the resurgence of bedbugs and that household items such as bedding, clothing, luggage or furniture are easy targets to transport bedbugs; and
Whereas, The Daily News article states that used furniture, especially mattresses, may contribute to an increased chance of bedbug infestation; and
Whereas, New York City is among various areas up and down the East Coast that have the greatest bedbug infestation problem, according to the ABC News segment; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the Council of the City of New York calls upon the appropriate committee of the Council to hold a hearing to examine the role that the sale of used mattresses play in the recent surge in bedbug infestations.
DP
LS # 1059
6/2/04