The House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife, and Fisheries held a legislative hearing on Congressman Ronny Jackson's (R) SAFE CATTLE Act, with the Texas Farm Bureau voicing support for the bill aimed at strengthening federal efforts to combat the New World screwworm and protect the U.S. livestock industry.
SAFE CATTLE Act receives House hearing
The House Natural Resources Committee's Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife, and Fisheries held a legislative hearing on Rep. Jackson's Supporting Agriculture, Forests, and Ecosystems (SAFE) CATTLE Act.
The legislation is designed to strengthen the federal government's response to the New World Screwworm, an invasive pest that poses a significant threat to livestock and wildlife.
Texas Farm Bureau backs legislation
During the hearing, Jared Blankenship, Texas Farm Bureau State Director for District 1, testified in support of the bill.
Jared Blankenship: "The New World screwworm poses a serious threat to American agriculture, and eradicating this devastating pest from the United States will take a coordinated effort from everyone involved—from ranchers and veterinarians to state officials and our federal partners at USDA and DOI."
He emphasized that continued cooperaiton will be critical to preventing the pest from spreadin further into the United States.
Strengthening federal coordination
According to Jackson, the SAFE CATTLE Act would improve coordination among:
- The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
- The U.S. Department of Interior (DOI).
- State animal health officials.
- Livestock producers and ranchers.
The legislation also seeks to strengthen surveillance efforts, improve eradication programs, and ensure Congress provides the resources needed to combat the New World screwworm.
Rep. Ronny Jackson: "I commend the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Department of Interior (DOI) for their ongoing efforts to eradicate this pest and protect our livestock and wildlife sectors."
The Bottom Line
Rep. Jackson's SAFE CATTLE Act advanced through a House subcommittee hearing with support from the Texas Farm Bureau, as lawmakers consider legislation aimed at improving federal coordination, surveillance, and eradication efforts to stop the spread of the New World Screwworm and protect America's livestock industry.
