On the recordFebruary 7, 2018
Earlier today, USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue announced $17.5 million in emergency funding to stop the spread of the spotted lanternfly in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The spotted lanternfly is beautiful, with its distinctive and colorful wings, but it is an invasive and threatening pest and its spread must be stopped. The spotted lanternfly is originally native to parts of China, India, Vietnam, and Eastern Asia. It was first discovered in Berks County, Pennsylvania, but now has spread to 13 counties. It is a threat to apples and grapes and peaches, stone fruits, and various tree species throughout Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania's Agriculture Secretary Russell Reading has been working to combat its spread, and this Federal funding will only increase the Commonwealth's ability to fight this pest. As vice chair of the House Agriculture Committee, I have been working with Congressman Ryan Costello and Congressman Lloyd Smucker and all members of the Pennsylvania delegation to ensure that we have the resources necessary to eradicate the spotted lanternfly. I applaud Secretary Perdue's swift prevention efforts before the planthopper starts to reemerge this spring. ____________________
