Reps. Kelly, Morelle push to eradicate the Spotted Lanternfly

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, U.S. Reps. Mike Kelly (R-PA) and Joe Morelle (D-NY) called on the United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS) to address the alarming spread of the Spotted Lanternfly in our region. This is the latest effort to address the Spotted Lanternfly and prevent devastating damage to New York and Pennsylvania’s
agricultural economies.

You can read their letter HERE.

“Agriculture plays a vital role in Pennsylvania’s economy, especially in my district which is home to many family farms and agricultural businesses,” said Rep. Kelly, Co-Chair of the House Small Brewers Caucus. “In Pennsylvania alone, the spotted lanternfly could cost hundreds of millions in economic damage and eliminate thousands of agricultural jobs. We must protect our farmers and harvesters from this invasive and dangerous threat.”

"We know that this invasive species is prone to feed on grapevines and hop plants, destroying the livelihoods of brewers and wine makers who are critical to the strength of our local economy. Millions of dollars in damage to our crops and thousands of jobs are on the line unless we take meaningful action now," said Congressman Morelle. "We’re calling for immediate action by the Department of Agriculture to stop the spread of the Spotted Lanternfly, including a comprehensive strategy to coordinate with state and local governments.”

BACKGROUND
Spotted Lanternflies have decimated crops in Pennsylvania where a recent economic impact study estimated the insect could cost the state $324 million annually and more than 2,800 jobs. Now, a growing number of states, including New York, have experienced significant infestations—putting our local farmers, winemakers, and brewers at serious risk.