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Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act

3/13/2024, 10:02 AM

Summary of Bill S 1837

Bill 118 s 1837, also known as the Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress with the aim of addressing the growing threat posed by the invasive insect species known as the spotted lanternfly. The bill seeks to allocate funding for research and development efforts aimed at controlling and eradicating the spotted lanternfly population, which has been causing significant damage to agricultural crops and forests in various parts of the United States.

The bill proposes the establishment of a research program focused on studying the biology, behavior, and control methods of the spotted lanternfly. It also calls for the development of innovative technologies and strategies to effectively manage and mitigate the impact of this destructive insect species on the environment and economy.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of collaboration between federal, state, and local agencies, as well as academic and industry partners, in order to effectively combat the spread of the spotted lanternfly. It also highlights the need for public outreach and education initiatives to raise awareness about the threat posed by this invasive species and to encourage community involvement in control and prevention efforts. Overall, the Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act aims to address the urgent need for coordinated and comprehensive action to combat the spread of the spotted lanternfly and protect the agricultural and natural resources of the United States.

Congressional Summary of S 1837

Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act

This bill includes combatting the spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) as a Department of Agriculture (USDA) high-priority research and extension area.

The bill specifically allows grants for developing and disseminating research-based tools and treatments to combat the spotted lanternfly, which is an invasive species native to China that feeds on a wide range of crops and plants (e.g., grapes, apples, hops, walnuts, and hardwood trees).

Further, the bill reauthorizes USDA grants to support competitive specialized research and extension activities, including high-priority areas, through FY2028. The bill also specifically reauthorizes through FY2028

  • the Pulse Crop Health Initiative;
  • the Comprehensive Food Safety Training Network;
  • pollinator protection research and extension grants;
  • increased USDA capacity and infrastructure to address and conduct research on colony collapse disorder and other pollinator issues; and
  • a USDA-conducted nationwide honey bee pest, pathogen, health, and population status surveillance program.

Current Status of Bill S 1837

Bill S 1837 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since June 7, 2023. Bill S 1837 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the Senate on June 7, 2023.  Bill S 1837's most recent activity was Read twice and referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. as of June 7, 2023

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 1837

Total Number of Sponsors
2
Democrat Sponsors
2
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
30
Democrat Cosponsors
28
Republican Cosponsors
2
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 1837

Primary Policy Focus

Agriculture and Food

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 1837

Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act
Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act
A bill to amend the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 to include spotted lanternfly control research and development as a high-priority research and extension initiative, and for other purposes.

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