Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has expressed support for U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins in addressing the New World Screwworm threat. Miller backs the USDA's appeal to Mexico regarding restrictions on USDA aircraft and customs duties for eradication equipment, which he says hinder the U.S. response to the outbreak.
Miller highlighted the importance of mutual collaboration given the assistance provided by the U.S. federal government to Mexico in combating this issue. He emphasized that barriers imposed by Mexico pose a serious risk to Texas and American agriculture.
"Each day that we lose operational ground strengthens this deadly threat's foothold," Miller said, pointing out concerns about previous border shutdowns under the Biden Administration, which he believes strained the cattle and beef industry economically.
While wary of excessive federal intervention, Miller acknowledged that decisive actions are necessary when facing threats to food supply and rural economy. He called for complete cooperation from Mexico and stressed the need for operational control over eradication programs in Mexico.
"If Mexico fails to act swiftly in collaborating with us on this emergency response, we may have to reinstate restrictions on livestock imports," Miller warned, underscoring his commitment to protecting livestock well-being and ranchers' financial stability.
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