WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HF 3354

Slow the Spread program funding provided to manage spongy moth populations, and money appropriated.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kari Rehrauer

The bill creates and funds a Slow the Spread program to rapidly detect, monitor, and treat spongy moth infestations to slow their expansion and impact.

Introduction and first reading, referred to Environment and Natural Resources Finance and Policy
#agricultureandagriculturedepartment #animalsandpets #environment
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HF 3354

Summary of HF 3354 (2025-2026) – Minnesota

Purpose and Intent

HF 3354 seeks to address and slow the spread of spongy moths (Lymantria dispar) by providing funding for a program dedicated to managing spongy moth populations. The bill outlines appropriation and program administration details to support rapid response, monitoring, treatment, and coordination efforts aimed at reducing the ecological and economic impacts of spongy moth infestations.

Key Provisions and Changes

  • Establishment and funding for the Slow the Spread program: The bill appropriates funds specifically designated to a Minnesota program aimed at slowing the geographic expansion and population growth of spongy moths.

  • Administration and oversight: The bill delineates the management framework for the Slow the Spread program, including responsibilities for agencies involved in implementing control measures, monitoring infestations, and evaluating program effectiveness.

  • Treatment and control activities:

    • Funding may cover the application of approved pheromone mis-timing or pheromone-based traps, biological controls, specialized insecticides, and other scientifically supported methods.
    • Emphasis on rapid response capabilities to newly detected infestations and proactive measures in high-risk areas.

  • Monitoring and data collection:

    • Resources allocated for surveillance activities, data gathering, and reporting to track infestation levels, treatment outcomes, and program progress.
    • Potential collaboration with researchers and extension services to assess efficacy and adapt strategies.

  • Coordination and partnerships:

    • Encourages coordination among state agencies, local governments, researchers, and possibly tribal entities to leverage expertise and resources.
    • May establish or reference a governance structure for interagency collaboration and stakeholder involvement.

  • Reporting and accountability:

    • Provisions for periodic reporting on fund use, infestation trends, and outcomes of treatments.
    • Possible requirements for fiscal audits and program evaluations to ensure transparency.

Who is Affected

  • State agencies: Particularly those involved in environmental management, forestry, agriculture, and natural resources (e.g., Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and partners) who would implement and oversee the program.
  • Local governments and communities: Areas experiencing spongy moth infestations could receive targeted funding and technical support for control efforts.
  • Residents and landowners: Indirectly affected as the program aims to reduce damage to forests, urban trees, and agricultural areas, potentially impacting property aesthetics, tree health, and local ecosystems.
  • Researchers and extension services: Could receive funding for monitoring, data analysis, and evaluation of control methods.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Introduction and first reading: February 17, 2026; referred to Environment and Natural Resources Finance and Policy.
  • Next steps: The bill would proceed through committee hearings, potential amendments, and floor votes as part of the 2025-2026 legislative session timeline.
  • Potential fiscal timeline: Funding authorization would become available upon passage and enactment, with annual or multi-year appropriations determined by the bill and subsequent appropriations bills.

Notes

  • Sponsor: Co-sponsor Kari Rehrauer.
  • The summary reflects available information from the bill’s title and action history. Specific dollar amounts, funding caps, duration, match requirements, or program governance details would be defined in the bill’s text and any amended versions as it progresses through the legislature.

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

Sign in to ask a question.