Us Congress Senate Bill SR436

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/26/23

Caption

A resolution expressing support for the designation of the week of October 24, 2023, to October 31, 2023, as "BatWeek".

Impact

By designating a 'BatWeek', SR436 aims to raise public awareness about the critical roles bats play in maintaining ecological balance. The resolution encourages educational outreach to inform the public about the various species of bats and their ecological functions. Additionally, the resolution aligns with ongoing efforts to combat white-nose syndrome, a devastating fungal disease that has caused significant declines in North American bat populations, including species listed as endangered under federal law.

Summary

SR436 is a resolution expressing support for the designation of the week of October 24, 2023, to October 31, 2023, as 'BatWeek'. The bill emphasizes the ecological significance of bats, highlighting their roles in pest control and pollination, which contribute to the agricultural economy, saving farmers billions in pest management costs. It reflects a growing recognition of the importance of biodiversity in sustaining ecosystems that benefit both nature and human interests alike.

Contention

While the resolution is largely supportive of bat conservation, it indirectly highlights the ongoing challenges faced by bat populations, particularly due to white-nose syndrome. The disease continues to pose a significant threat to several bat species, and this bill seeks to galvanize support for ongoing conservation initiatives. Notably, the resolution acknowledges the collaborative efforts between various federal agencies, state organizations, and non-profits in addressing the challenges that bats face, illustrating a united front in conservation efforts.