Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act
Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act
Plain Language Summary
# Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act (HR 4708) - Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill would make fighting the spotted lanternfly a high-priority research area for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The spotted lanternfly is an invasive insect from Asia that damages many crops and plants, including grapes, apples, hops, walnuts, and trees. The bill would authorize grants to develop and share new tools and treatments to combat this pest.
It would also extend funding through 2030 for other USDA research programs related to crop health, food safety, pollinator protection, and honeybee colony collapse disorder. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects farmers and agricultural producers who deal with spotted lanternfly infestations, particularly in the Northeast and other regions where the pest has spread. It also benefits the agriculture research community and consumers who depend on the affected crops. The funding would support universities, researchers, and extension programs that help farmers implement new pest management techniques. **Current Status:** The bill was introduced by Representative Joseph Morelle (D-NY) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives.
CRS Official Summary
Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development ActThis bill includes combatting the spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) as a Department of Agriculture (USDA) high-priority research and extension area and reauthorizes other USDA research and extension initiatives.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 Asia 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 FY2030. The bill also specifically reauthorizes through FY2030the 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; anda USDA-conducted nationwide honey bee pest, pathogen, health, and population status surveillance program.
Latest Action
Referred to the House Committee on Agriculture.