H.R.3717 - Golden Mussel Eradication and Control Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3717, the "Golden Mussel Eradication and Control Act of 2025," aims to amend the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990. The bill establishes a demonstration program focused on the prevention, monitoring, control, and eradication of the golden mussel. This program includes research, early warning systems, and the development of control methods, particularly in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and other infested waters.
The bill also creates a grant program to fund projects that identify effective technologies for golden mussel control and removal. It authorizes appropriations of $15,000,000 annually from 2026 through 2030 to support these efforts.
The Task Force, in partnership with various entities, will coordinate and potentially delegate responsibilities to implement control and eradication methods.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to increased research and development of technologies to combat golden mussel infestations. It will also provide resources to state and local entities for implementing control measures.
Furthermore, the establishment of a grant program will stimulate innovation in mussel control technologies. This could result in improved water quality and protection of aquatic ecosystems.
Finally, the bill will enhance coordination among federal, state, and local agencies in addressing the invasive species issue.
Potential Benefits
- Development of new technologies for controlling and eradicating golden mussels.
- Improved water quality and ecosystem health in infested areas.
- Enhanced coordination among government agencies and other stakeholders.
- Protection of fisheries and public infrastructure from mussel-related damage.
- Potential for economic benefits through technology transfer and commercialization of new control methods.
Potential Disadvantages
- The $15,000,000 annual appropriation may be insufficient to address the full scope of the problem.
- The program's success depends on effective coordination and collaboration among diverse stakeholders.
- There may be unintended consequences from the control methods used, affecting non-target species or ecosystems.
- The focus on the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta may divert resources from other areas also affected by golden mussels.
- Potential delays in implementation due to bureaucratic processes or lack of stakeholder buy-in.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) by regulating activities that affect interstate waterways and commerce. It also aligns with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 1) by promoting the well-being of the environment and economy through invasive species control.
Furthermore, the bill's delegation of authority to the Task Force and other entities is consistent with the Necessary and Proper Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 18), which allows Congress to enact laws necessary to carry out its enumerated powers.
Finally, the bill does not appear to infringe upon any individual liberties or rights protected by the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).