Rep. Monica De La Cruz (R-Texas) recently introduced the New World Screwworm Preparedness Act to direct 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 (NWS).
“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,” De La Cruz said. “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.”
The legislation was proposed a month after the USDA announced it would halt live cattle imports from Mexico due to concerns about NWS.
The parasitic fly was detected in Oaxaca and Veracruz, Mexico about 700 miles away from the US border, according to the USDA.
De La Cruz explained that an outbreak within Texas could lead to devastating economic consequences for the state’s cattle and hunting industries. She previously backed additional efforts to eradicate NWS, including urging the USDA to establish a sterile fly facility at Moore Air Base in Hidalgo County, Texas.
Other co-sponsors for the bill include Reps. Brian Babin, Chip Roy, August Pfluger, Tony Gonzales, Lance Gooden, Dan Crenshaw, Michael McCaul, Roger Williams, Troy Nehls, Jodey Arrington and Brandon Gill.
Source - https://www.meatpoultry.com
