Press Releases

Today, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) introduced the New World Screwworm Preparedness Act to direct the U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins to conduct a study and report strategies to enhance preparedness and response capabilities against potential outbreaks of the New World Screwworm.

"As the threat of the New World Screwworm rises, it is critical we remain prepared to eradicate the threat before the Texas livestock industry is severely impacted. Texas successfully eradicated this parasite before. I am committed to finding solutions to cut off this pest early to protect our livestock and local economy." - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

Original co-sponsors are Reps. Brian Babin (TX-36), Chip Roy (TX-21), August Pfluger (TX-11), Tony Gonzales (TX-23), Lance Gooden (TX-05), Dan Crenshaw (TX-02), Michael McCaul (TX-10), Roger Williams (TX-25), Troy Nehls (TX-22), Jodey Arrington (TX-19), and Brandon Gill (TX-26). The legislation has garnered support from the Texas Farm Bureau and the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association.

“The New World screwworm poses a serious threat to the United States’ livestock industry. Congresswoman De La Cruz has listened to the concerns of Texas Farm Bureau members and responded with commonsense solutions to protect our agricultural producers. We commend her swift action to introduce critical legislation that will help prevent the spread of this deadly parasite and prepare for future outbreaks across Texas. In addition to her efforts to establish a sterile fly facility at Moore Air Base in Texas, Congresswoman De La Cruz has shown strong leadership and a clear commitment to protecting the livestock industry and the broader agricultural economy.” - Russell Boening, President of Texas Farm Bureau

“The growing threat of the New World screwworm demands swift, coordinated action. Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association fully supports this legislation, enhancing U.S. preparedness and response to the NWS threat. This legislation is a critical step toward ensuring USDA's overarching strategy is being communicated to Congress. We are grateful for the leadership of Congresswoman De La Cruz and others who are working to safeguard our cattle industry. We remain committed to working alongside our state, federal, and industry partners to protect America's beef herd.” - Carl Ray Polk Jr., President of the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association

Background: 
The New World Screwworm is a highly destructive parasitic fly whose larvae infest the flesh of livestock and wildlife. The parasite has been detected in Veracruz, Mexico, approximately 700 miles from the U.S. border. As more cases arise, the threat and concerns of northward spread grow. Furthermore, an outbreak in Texas could lead to devastating economic consequences for the state's cattle and hunting industries.

De La Cruz has backed additional efforts to eradicate the New World Screwworm, including urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish a sterile fly facility at Moore Air Base in Hidalgo County.

  

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