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Bill

HR 3717

Golden Mussel Eradication and Control Act of 2025

119th Congress Introduced by Ami Bera and 7 co-sponsors

The Golden Mussel Eradication and Control Act of 2025 funds research and partnerships to combat invasive golden mussels, protecting ecosystems and water resources.

Referred to the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment.
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Bill Summary · HR 3717

Summary of HR 3717: Golden Mussel Eradication and Control Act of 2025

Purpose and Intent

The Golden Mussel Eradication and Control Act of 2025 aims to address the growing threat posed by the golden mussel (Limnoperna fortunei), an invasive species that can cause significant ecological and economic damage to freshwater ecosystems. The bill seeks to establish a comprehensive framework for the eradication and control of this invasive species to protect native aquatic life and maintain the integrity of water resources.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several important provisions designed to combat the spread of golden mussels:

  • Research and Development: The bill mandates funding for research into effective methods for the eradication and control of golden mussels. This includes the development of biological, chemical, and mechanical control strategies.

  • State and Local Partnerships: It encourages collaboration between federal, state, and local agencies to implement control measures and share best practices for managing golden mussel populations.

  • Funding Allocation: The bill proposes the allocation of federal funds to support eradication efforts, including grants for state and local governments to develop and execute control plans.

  • Public Awareness Campaigns: It calls for the establishment of public education initiatives to raise awareness about the impacts of golden mussels and promote responsible practices to prevent their spread.

  • Monitoring and Reporting: The bill requires ongoing monitoring of water bodies for golden mussel populations and mandates regular reporting to Congress on the effectiveness of control measures.

Who Would Be Affected

The Golden Mussel Eradication and Control Act of 2025 would primarily affect:

  • State and Local Governments: Agencies responsible for managing water resources and ecosystems would be directly involved in implementing the bill's provisions.

  • Researchers and Environmental Organizations: Entities engaged in ecological research and conservation efforts would benefit from funding and collaboration opportunities.

  • Recreational and Commercial Water Users: Boaters, fishermen, and other waterway users may see changes in regulations and practices aimed at preventing the spread of golden mussels.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: The bill was introduced in the House on June 4, 2025.
  • Committee Referral: It has been referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the Committee on Natural Resources for consideration. The timeline for further action will be determined by the Speaker of the House.

Conclusion

The Golden Mussel Eradication and Control Act of 2025 represents a proactive approach to managing an invasive species that threatens aquatic ecosystems. By fostering research, collaboration, and public awareness, the bill aims to mitigate the ecological and economic risks associated with golden mussels, ensuring the protection of vital water resources.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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