Summary of HR 3392 - STOP Screwworms Act

Overview

The STOP Screwworms Act, formally known as the Strengthening Tactics to Obstruct the Population of Screwworms Act, was introduced in the House of Representatives on May 14, 2025. The bill aims to address the significant agricultural and ecological challenges posed by screwworm infestations.

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of the STOP Screwworms Act is to implement enhanced strategies for controlling and eradicating the population of screwworms, which are known to cause severe harm to livestock and wildlife. By strengthening existing measures and introducing new tactics, the bill seeks to protect agricultural interests and promote animal health.

Key Provisions

While the full text of the bill is not provided, the following key aspects can be anticipated based on the title and legislative context:

• Enhanced Control Measures: The bill is likely to propose new methods or technologies for monitoring and controlling screwworm populations.
• Funding and Resources: It may allocate federal resources or funding to support research and development of effective screwworm management strategies.
• Collaboration: The bill could encourage partnerships between federal, state, and local agencies, as well as private stakeholders, to coordinate efforts in combating screwworm infestations.

Affected Parties

The STOP Screwworms Act would primarily impact:

• Farmers and Livestock Producers: Those involved in agriculture, particularly in regions where screwworms are prevalent, would benefit from improved pest control measures.
• Wildlife Conservationists: Efforts to manage screwworm populations may also support the health of wildlife ecosystems affected by these pests.
• Agricultural Economies: By protecting livestock, the bill aims to bolster the economic stability of agricultural sectors vulnerable to screwworm damage.

Legislative Process

• Introduced: May 14, 2025
• Referred to Committee: The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Agriculture for further consideration.

Sponsorship

The bill is sponsored by Tony Gonzales and has a substantial list of cosponsors, indicating broad bipartisan support. Notable cosponsors include:

• Scott Franklin
• Kat Cammack
• Nathaniel Moran
• Teresa Leger Fernandez
• Michael T. McCaul
• Sylvia R. Garcia
• Robert B. Aderholt
• August Pfluger
• Wesley Hunt
• Derek Schmidt
• Keith Self
• Ronny Jackson
• Pat Fallon
• Pete Sessions
• Jodey C. Arrington
• Jack Bergman
• Mike Rogers
• Michelle Fischbach
• Michael Guest
• Sharice Davids
• Jake Ellzey
• John R. Carter
• Beth Van Duyne
• Morgan Luttrell
• Vicente Gonzalez
• Jeff Hurd
• Lance Gooden
• Frank D. Lucas
• Veronica Escobar
• Barry Moore
• Monica De La Cruz
• Bennie G. Thompson
• Trent Kelly
• David G. Valadao
• Don Bacon
• Brian Babin
• Gabe Vasquez
• Roger Williams
• Julie Johnson
• Troy E. Nehls
• Mike Bost
• Burgess Owens
• Henry Cuellar
• Jasmine Crockett
• Marc A. Veasey

Related Legislation

The STOP Screwworms Act has a companion bill, S 1751, which is likely to address similar issues in the Senate.

Conclusion

The STOP Screwworms Act represents a proactive approach to managing a pest that poses a significant threat to livestock and wildlife. With its introduction in the House and support from a diverse group of legislators, the bill aims to enhance agricultural resilience and protect animal health through improved pest control strategies.