July 29, 2020 - Issue: Vol. 166, No. 134 — Daily Edition116th Congress (2019 - 2020) - 2nd Session

[Pages H3889-H3890]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  THE IMPORTANCE OF ERADICATING THE SPOTTED LANTERNFLY IN PENNSYLVANIA

  (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania asked and was given permission to 
address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to stress the 
importance of researching, combating, and eradicating the spotted 
lanternfly. This invasive pest is native to China, Bangladesh, and 
Vietnam, but has been wreaking havoc in Pennsylvania since 2014.
  The spotted lanternfly is a relentless menace that continues to harm 
Pennsylvania's agricultural sector, damaging trees, and destroying crop 
yields. These insects lay egg masses on trees, causing oozing sap, mold 
growth, and more.

[[Page H3890]]

  While the spotted lanternfly is harmless to humans, it can seriously 
impact our surroundings. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture 
estimates the potential damage in lost revenue from the spotted 
lanternfly could amount to $18 billion per year, statewide.
  I have been pleased to work with my colleague, Congresswoman 
Houlahan, to stress the importance of ridding the Commonwealth of this 
pest. It will take continued support to eradicate the spotted 
lanternfly and prevent further harm to our environment and economy.
  I would like to encourage any Pennsylvanian who encounters a spotted 
lanternfly to get rid of it and to report an infestation to the 
Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.

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