For Immediate Release
June 24, 2026
Sierra Wallace, Communications Director
(202) 355-8431
swallace@dccouncil.gov

Councilmember Henderson Introduces Legislation to Increase Rodent Abatement Efforts

Washington, DC – On Monday, June 22, Councilmember Henderson introduced the Rodent Education and Management Yields Results (REMY) Amendment Act of 2026. The bill targets eliminating food sources for rodents while protecting residents from health risks associated with untrained application of rodenticides.  

“Rodent problems are prevailing in the District,” Councilmember Henderson stated. “As our commercial corridors continue to be hot spots for rat infestations, residents are turning to rodenticides that can be ineffective at reducing rodent populations while also posing health risks to people, pets and wildlife. This legislation takes a public health approach that addresses the main cause of rodent infestation and helps keep our community safe.”  

When applied improperly, rodenticides can be a health hazard. In the past year alone, a DC hospital reported 12 cases of pediatric hospitalization tied to rodenticide exposure. This introduced legislation pivots to reducing rat hot spots by increasing commercial businesses' access to rodent proof dumpsters while also providing education on effective rodent abatement.

Specifically, this legislation:

• Decreases food sources for rodents by establishing a commercial corridor rodent-proof dumpster pilot program to support Business Improvement Districts and Main Streets in addressing areas with high rodent populations;

• Protects children, pets, and wildlife from rodenticide poisoning by requiring training and certification for the sale and usage of anticoagulant rodenticides in the District; and

• Increases public awareness for effective prevention and abatement strategies by requiring DC Health to conduct public education as part of its rodent abatement efforts.

This bill was co-introduced by Councilmembers Charles Allen, Matthew Frumin, Janeese Lewis George, and Brooke Pinto.  

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