On the recordJune 25, 2019
I would like to talk about a challenge that we have in California's waterways. It is a challenge of an invasive species called nutria. Nutrias are commonly known as swamp rats to many. They came from South America decades ago, but they raise havoc wherever they go. They are a problem for California's already challenged water system. They destroy canals and levees, which, in turn, could lead to flooding and threaten water delivery to our farmers and our farm communities. Usually detected in large numbers, they rapidly reproduce, which makes eradication difficult. Last week, I cosponsored legislation with fellow Congressmen Josh Harder and TJ Cox to help fight the nutria population growth. The bill will reauthorize the Nutria Eradication and Control Act of 2003 and provide $7 million toward efforts to rid the species from California once and for all. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this important legislation for California. Celebrating Portuguese Heritage Month
