Amid An Explosion Of Lyme Disease Cases In New York, Gillibrand Calls For Passage Of The Kay Hagan Tick Reauthorization Act

Jul 31, 2025
Over 22,000 cases of Lyme disease were reported in New York State in 2023
Legislation wouldsupport research, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of tick-borne illnesses
Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand held a virtual press conference to call for the passage of theKay Hagan Tick Reauthorization Act, which would support research, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment for tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease. Gillibrand is also fighting to secure over $200 million for research and programs that address Lyme disease, protecting families, communities, and service members across New York.
“Tick-borne illnesses are a growing threat in New York and across the country, and we must do more to ensure that all Americans are protected,”said Senator Gillibrand.“TheKay Hagan Tick Reauthorization Actwould help develop better treatments and preventative measures for the thousands of New Yorkers who suffer from tick-borne illnesses and for those who live in high-risk areas. Funding research and programs that address these diseases will also increase our ability to combat them. New Yorkers deserve the freedom to spend time outdoors without worrying about tick-borne illnesses, and I’m committed to getting this crucial legislation across the finish line.”
Tick-borne illnesses pose a growing threat to public health, and New York reports the highest incidence of Lyme disease in the country. Reported cases of Lyme disease in New York have skyrocketed in recent years, from about 2,200 in 2020 to over 22,000 in 2023. Areas like Suffolk County, Orange County, and Westchester County have some of the highest numbers of cases throughout the state, but cases are also rising in urban areas like New York City.
Specifically, theKay Hagan Tick Reauthorization Actwould:
In addition to theKay Hagan Tick Reauthorization Act, Gillibrand has requested over $200 million in appropriations to support research and programs that address Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. These funding requests include:
The full text of theKay Hagan Tick Reauthorization Actcan be foundhere.
###