This legislation mandates the Secretary of Agriculture to establish one or more modular New World screwworm fly rearing facilities within 180 days of enactment. These facilities will rear and disperse sterile New World screwworm flies to prevent and control infestations in at-risk areas, which are determined by migratory patterns and suitability for effective dispersal. The bill aims to strengthen defenses against this agricultural threat by actively managing the screwworm population through these specialized facilities. The Secretary is also required to submit annual reports detailing the current threat, the Department's efforts including facility operations, and the effectiveness of these control measures. To fund these critical initiatives, the bill authorizes an appropriation of $300,000,000 , which will remain available until expended.
This legislation mandates the Secretary of Agriculture to establish one or more modular New World screwworm fly rearing facilities within 180 days of enactment. These facilities will rear and disperse sterile New World screwworm flies to prevent and control infestations in at-risk areas, which are determined by migratory patterns and suitability for effective dispersal. The bill aims to strengthen defenses against this agricultural threat by actively managing the screwworm population through these specialized facilities. The Secretary is also required to submit annual reports detailing the current threat, the Department's efforts including facility operations, and the effectiveness of these control measures. To fund these critical initiatives, the bill authorizes an appropriation of $300,000,000 , which will remain available until expended.