STOP Screwworms Act
- Sponsor
- Sen. Cornyn, John [R-TX]
- Committees
- Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee (primary)
- Last action
- May 14, 2025
Bottom line
This bill directs the Department of Agriculture to build new facilities and fund a program to combat New World screwworm fly infestations using sterile insect technology, aiming to protect U.S. agriculture.
What it actually does
This bill mandates the Secretary of Agriculture to establish one or more modular New World screwworm fly rearing facilities within 180 days of enactment. These facilities are intended to rear and disperse sterile screwworm flies in areas at risk of infestation. The bill also requires annual reports to Congress and the public on the screwworm threat and the effectiveness of control efforts, authorizing $300 million for these activities.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that this bill is a critical and proactive measure to protect the U.S. agricultural sector, particularly livestock, from the devastating economic impact of New World screwworm infestations. They contend that investing in dedicated rearing facilities and the proven sterile insect technique will prevent costly outbreaks and safeguard food security.
Opponents contend
While direct opposition to screwworm eradication is uncommon, potential critics might question the significant upfront cost of $300 million, suggesting that existing resources or alternative, potentially more cost-effective, strategies could be explored before mandating new construction and a large appropriation.
The bill is exceptionally short and clear, making it very accessible for a quick and thorough understanding of its provisions.
Section 2, amending 7 U.S.C. 8301 et seq. by inserting Section 10409B
Establishment of New World Screwworm Fly Rearing Facilities
This provision requires the Secretary of Agriculture to begin construction within 180 days of the bill's enactment on one or more modular facilities for rearing and dispersing sterile New World screwworm flies. These facilities must be located in areas identified as being at risk of infestation and suitable for dispersing flies to other at-risk regions. The bill authorizes $300,000,000 for these activities, with funds remaining available until expended.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that establishing these dedicated facilities is a crucial and proactive investment to safeguard the U.S. agricultural economy from a historically devastating pest. They emphasize that the sterile insect technique is a proven, effective method for screwworm control, and early, sustained intervention is more cost-effective than reacting to widespread outbreaks.
Critics contend
While direct opposition to screwworm eradication is rare, critics might question the specific funding level or the necessity of new, dedicated facilities if existing infrastructure or alternative, potentially more efficient, methods could be utilized. They might also raise concerns about the environmental impact of large-scale fly dispersal, though this is a well-established and generally accepted biological control method.
Tradeoffs
This provision balances the immediate, substantial federal investment required for facility construction and operation against the long-term economic benefits of preventing screwworm outbreaks and protecting the vital livestock industry. It also represents a strategic commitment to a specific biological control method.
Section 2, subsection (c) of new 10409B
Annual Report on Screwworm Threat and Efforts
This provision mandates that the Secretary of Agriculture submit an annual report to the House and Senate Agriculture Committees, also making it publicly available online. The report must include an analysis of the current threat posed by New World screwworm flies to U.S. agriculture and detail the Department's efforts to combat their migration, specifically including the construction and operation of the new facilities and an assessment of their effectiveness.