REPRESENTATIVES MORELLE, KELLY, HOULAHAN, AND LANGWORTHY LEAD BIPARTISAN EFFORT TO SQUASH THE INVASIVE SPOTTED LANTERNFLY

(Washington, D.C.)—Today, Representatives Joe Morelle (D, NY-25), Mike Kelly (R, PA-16), Chrissy Houlahan (D, PA-06), and Nick Langworthy (R, NY-23) introduced bipartisan legislation to stop the spread of the Spotted Lanternfly, an invasive species that poses a significant threat to the American agricultural economy.

“It’s hard to visit the Finger Lakes without enjoying our amazing vineyards and orchards, but sadly, they’re under serious threat from the Spotted Lanternfly,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “My legislation would provide additional support for both local and national organizations committed to fighting back against this invasive, destructive pest. I’m grateful to Representatives Kelly, Houlahan, and Langworthy for joining me in supporting this critical bill, and I hope to see it passed and signed into law soon.”

“Agriculture plays a vital role in Pennsylvania’s economy, especially in my district which is home to many family farms and agricultural businesses,” said Rep. Mike Kelly. “In Pennsylvania alone, the Spotted Lanternfly could cost hundreds of millions of dollars in economic damage and eliminate thousands of agricultural jobs. We must protect our farmers and harvesters from this invasive and dangerous threat.”

"Across our community, I hear time and again about how devastating these pests can be. Whether you're a farmer, a homeowner, or just someone who enjoys the delicious produce grown by our community's farmers, the invasive Spotted Lanternfly poses a serious problem," said Rep. Chrissy Houlahan. "I'm glad to join this bipartisan group of leaders who are once again stepping up to unlock new research funding on eradicating these insects. I was thrilled to see this legislation included last year in both the House and Senate drafts of the Farm Bill and remain optimistic that this year, we will be able to push this legislation forward to deliver these badly needed funds."

“The Spotted Lanternfly infestation continues to wreak havoc across Western New York and the Southern Tier, especially devastating our grape crops,” said Congressman Nick Langworthy. “Year after year, this invasive pest inflicts severe damage, threatening not only our crops but the livelihoods of hardworking farmers and the very future of our agricultural communities. This crisis can no longer be ignored. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan effort to safeguard our crops, protect our local farmers' livelihoods, and preserve the future of our agricultural communities.”

"Congressman Morelle's decisive action through this legislation demonstrates his profound understanding of the challenges facing New York's agricultural sector," said Benjamin Houlton, the Ronald P. Lynch Dean of Cornell University's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. "As New York's Land-Grant institution, we are committed to developing science-based solutions to combat the spotted lanternfly threat. His leadership in securing crucial funding will strengthen our research and extension efforts, providing both our agricultural and residential communities with essential resources to protect New York's rich agricultural heritage. We are deeply grateful for Congressman Morelle's unwavering commitment to this critical issue and his continued advocacy for New York's agricultural industry."

"The invasive spotted lanternfly continues to pose great risk to New York's vineyards, fruit orchards, hops production and forestry,” said David Fisher, New York Farm Bureau President. “As with all invasive and harmful species, research and education are essential to mitigating the spread of the insect and to helping reduce its impact on crops and forestland. New York Farm Bureau thanks Rep. Morelle for sponsoring the Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act, which prioritizes funding in the Farm Bill and expedites the grants necessary to combat this serious problem."

“As the spotted lanternfly continues to expand its range—including into the Finger Lakes wine and grape-growing region—we’re seeing an elevated concern from this invasive pest,” said Brian Eshenaur, Invasive Species and Spotted Lanternfly Outreach Specialist with Cornell University’s Integrated Pest Management Program. “Because the agricultural impacts were largely unknown before it arrived in the U.S., research is essential now to equip producers with effective management strategies and reduce potential damage. We appreciate Congressman Morelle’s leadership in recognizing the urgency of the issue and introducing this critical legislation.”

Congressman Morelle’s legislation, the Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act, designates the Spotted Lanternfly as a high-priority research and extension initiative under the National Institute of Food and Agriculture. This designation authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to make competitive grants available for research projects related to the mitigation of this invasive species so we can find creative solutions to stop the spread before New York’s cash crops are further decimated.

How you can help stop the spread:

• Learn how to identify the Spotted Lanternfly.
• Inspect outdoor items such as firewood, vehicles, and furniture for egg masses.
• If you visit other states with Spotted Lanternfly, be sure to check all equipment and gear before leaving and scrape off any egg masses.
• Report sightings by completing this form.
• If you see a Spotted Lanternfly, kill it immediately by stepping on it or crushing it.

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