H.R.3392 - Strengthening Tactics to Obstruct the Population of Screwworms Act; STOP Screwworms Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3392, the STOP Screwworms Act, directs the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a New World screwworm fly rearing facility. This facility will produce sterile flies for dispersal in areas at risk of infestation. The bill also mandates annual reports to Congress on the threat posed by screwworms and the effectiveness of control efforts.
Expected Effects
The bill aims to protect agriculture by reducing the screwworm fly population. This will be achieved through the rearing and dispersal of sterile flies. The Act also requires ongoing monitoring and reporting on the screwworm threat and the efficacy of implemented strategies.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced protection of livestock and agricultural industries from screwworm infestations.
- Potential reduction in economic losses associated with screwworm damage.
- Increased food security through safeguarding agricultural production.
- Creation of jobs related to the construction and operation of the rearing facility.
- Improved data collection and analysis regarding screwworm threats.
Potential Disadvantages
- The $300 million appropriation could strain the federal budget.
- Potential delays in construction and operation of the facility.
- Risk that the facility's output may not adequately address the screwworm threat.
- Possible unintended ecological consequences from the release of sterile flies.
- Uncertainty regarding the long-term effectiveness of the program.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the General Welfare Clause (Preamble) by aiming to protect agriculture and food security. Congress has the power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8), which includes addressing threats to agricultural products that may cross state lines. The appropriation of funds is also within Congress's power of the purse (Article I, Section 9).
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).