The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
“THE IMPORTANCE OF ERADICATING THE SPOTTED LANTERNFLY IN PENNSYLVANIA” mentioning the U.S. Dept of Agriculture was published in the House of Representatives section on pages H3889-H3890 on July 29, 2020.
The Department is primarily focused on food nutrition, with assistance programs making up 80 percent of its budget. Downsizing the Federal Government, a project aimed at lowering taxes and boosting federal efficiency, said the Department implements too many regulations and restrictions and impedes the economy.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
THE IMPORTANCE OF ERADICATING THE SPOTTED LANTERNFLY IN PENNSYLVANIA
(Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to stress the importance of researching, combating, and eradicating the spotted lanternfly. This invasive pest is native to China, Bangladesh, and Vietnam, but has been wreaking havoc in Pennsylvania since 2014.
The spotted lanternfly is a relentless menace that continues to harm Pennsylvania's agricultural sector, damaging trees, and destroying crop yields. These insects lay egg masses on trees, causing oozing sap, mold growth, and more.
While the spotted lanternfly is harmless to humans, it can seriously impact our surroundings. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture estimates the potential damage in lost revenue from the spotted lanternfly could amount to $18 billion per year, statewide.
I have been pleased to work with my colleague, Congresswoman Houlahan, to stress the importance of ridding the Commonwealth of this pest. It will take continued support to eradicate the spotted lanternfly and prevent further harm to our environment and economy.
I would like to encourage any Pennsylvanian who encounters a spotted lanternfly to get rid of it and to report an infestation to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.
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