HR 4708

Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act

Summary

Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act This bill includes combatting the spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) as a Department of Agriculture (USDA) high-priority research and extension area and reauthorizes other USDA research and extension initiatives. The bill specifically allows grants for developing and disseminating research-based tools and treatments to combat the spotted lanternfly, which is an invasive species native to Asia that feeds on a wide range of crops and plants (e.g., grapes, apples, hops, walnuts, and hardwood trees). Further, the bill reauthorizes USDA grants to support competitive specialized research and extension activities, including high-priority areas, through FY2030. The bill also specifically reauthorizes through FY2030 the Pulse Crop Health Initiative; the Comprehensive Food Safety Training Network; pollinator protection research and extension grants; increased USDA capacity and infrastructure to address and conduct research on colony collapse disorder and other pollinator issues; and a USDA-conducted nationwide honey bee pest, pathogen, health, and population status surveillance program.

Bill status

Status
In committee
Sponsor
Rep. Joseph D. Morelle [D-NY-25]
Cosponsors
40
Policy area
Agriculture and Food
Introduced
2025-07-23
Latest action
2025-07-23: Referred to the House Committee on Agriculture.

Committee referrals

Recent actions

  • 2025-07-23: Referred to the House Committee on Agriculture.
  • 2025-07-23: Introduced in House
  • 2025-07-23: Introduced in House