Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (D) and members of the Texas Democratic delegation are demanding answers from USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins as New World Screwworm cases continue to emerge in Texas and New Mexico, raising concerns about potential economic losses for the state's livestock industry.
Why are lawmakers requesting a USDA briefing?
Rep. Gonzalez joined Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (D) and Members of the Texas Democratic delegation in sending a letter to Sec. Rollins requesting a congressional briefing on the federal response to the New World Screwworm outbreak.
The lawmakers cited growing concerns following the discovery of the first U.S. case in a calf in Zavala County, Texas, and additional cases reported in both Texas and New Mexico.
According to the letter, members want more information about USDA staffing levels, program resources, and the agency's strategy for containing the pest before it spreads further.
What concerns did the lawmakers raise?
The delegation warned that a widespread outbreak could have major consequences for Texas agriculture and the economy.
The lawmakers wrote that: "An outbreak of screwworm today could cost Texas livestock producers $732 million per year, with annual economic loss of $1.8 billion for Texas alone."
They also noted that the burden of identifying, reporting, and treating infestations largely falls on ranchers and farmers already facing financial pressures from rising production costs, weather challenges, and historically low cattle inventories.
Who signed the letter?
In addition to Reps. Gonzalez and Fletcher, the letter was signed by several members of the Texas Democratic congressional delegation, including:
- Greg Casar
- Joaquin Castro
- Jasmine Crockett
- Henrey Cuellar
- Lloyd Doggett
- Veronica Escobar
- Sylvia Garcia
- Al Green
- Julie Johnson
- Christian Menefee
- Marc Veasey
The Bottom Line
As New World Screwworm cases continue to appear in Texas and New Mexico, Rep. Gonzalez and other Texas Democrats are pressing USDA officials for answers about the federal response. The lawmakers argue that stronger prevention, staffing, and containment efforts are needed to protect Texas ranchers and prevent billions of dollars in potential economic losses.
