S.1751 - Strengthening Tactics to Obstruct the Population of Screwworms Act; STOP Screwworms Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1751, the STOP Screwworms Act, mandates the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a New World screwworm fly rearing facility. This facility will rear sterile screwworm flies for dispersal in areas at risk of infestation. The bill allocates $300 million for this purpose and requires annual reports to Congress on the threat and efforts to combat screwworm fly migration.
Expected Effects
The primary effect will be a reduction in the threat posed by New World screwworm flies to agriculture. This will be achieved through the rearing and dispersal of sterile flies to control the population. The Act also mandates increased monitoring and reporting on screwworm threats.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced risk of screwworm infestation for livestock.
- Enhanced agricultural productivity and reduced economic losses for farmers.
- Improved animal health and welfare.
- Increased monitoring and reporting leading to better informed decision-making.
- Potential for job creation in the construction and operation of the rearing facility.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for unintended ecological consequences from large-scale insect release.
- High initial cost of $300 million.
- Possible delays in construction and operation of the facility.
- Risk of the facility not being effective in controlling screwworm populations.
- Potential for the facility to become a source of screwworm escape if not properly managed.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, as it aims to protect agriculture and animal health. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to collect taxes and provide for the general welfare of the United States. The allocation of funds for this purpose falls under this power. There are no apparent conflicts with other constitutional provisions.
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).