CONGRESSMAN MORELLE CALLS FOR ACTION TO ADDRESS RAPID SPREAD OF INVASIVE SPOTTED LANTERNFLY

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, Congressman Joe Morelle called for action to address the ongoing spread of the Spotted Lanternfly, an invasive species that causes devastating damage to our local agricultural economy. Rep. Morelle urged full funding of the Animal Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS) Specialty Crop Pest Program in the Fiscal Year 2023 Agricultural Appropriations bill to dedicate robust resources towards eradicating the Spotted Lanternfly.

"I am deeply concerned by the rate at which the invasive Spotted Lanternfly has spread across America and the serious threat it poses to the future of our agricultural economy," said Congressman Joe Morelle. "Millions of dollars in damage to our crops and thousands of jobs are on the line unless we take meaningful action to stop its spread. That is why I am calling for robust funding to be included in this year’s appropriations bill so we can stop the Spotted Lanternfly in its tracks and protect the livelihood of our local farmers.”

First discovered in 2014 in Pennsylvania, the Spotted Lanternfly has since been found throughout the Northeast, Northwest, and Midwest regions of the U.S., including New York State. Though not harmful to humans, the SLF's presence wreaks havoc on many of our nation's cash crops, including grapevines and hop plants, putting winemakers and brewers at serious risk. Without immediate action to stop the spread of this invasive species, the livelihood of our breweries, wineries, and so many other small businesses are in jeopardy.

In 2021, Rep. Morelle helped secure $4 million for APHIS to combat the spread of the Spotted Lanternfly and protect farmers and their crop. However, much more must be done to address the insect’s rapid growth, which is why Rep Morelle is leading the charge for additional funding for APHIS. His letter to the House Chair of the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, and Related Agencies is available here.