Us Congress Senate Bill SB85

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/14/25
• Refer: 1/14/25

Caption

Continued Rapid Ohia Death Response Act of 2025This bill establishes requirements to research and control the fungus Ceratocystis, known as Rapid Ohia Death, which has killed more than a million native trees in Hawaii.Specifically, the Department of the Interior must partner with the Department of Agriculture and Hawaii to control and address the fungus.In addition, the U.S. Geological Survey must continue to research Rapid Ohia Death vectors and transmission.The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service must continue to partner with Hawaii and local stakeholders to manage ungulates (e.g., certain mammals such as deer) in Rapid Ohia Death control areas on federal, state, and private land.Finally, the Forest Service must continue to provide (1) financial assistance to prevent the spread of the fungus and to restore the native forests of Hawaii, and (2) staff and necessary infrastructure funding to the Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry to research the fungus.

Impact

This bill directly impacts state laws concerning forest management and environmental conservation. By requiring active collaboration at various governmental levels, it establishes a framework for addressing invasive species and forest diseases. The enactment of SB85 intends to allocate approximately $5 million annually for ten years to support research and preventive measures. This funding aims to enhance resources for managing the Rapid Ohia Death outbreak, including financial assistance for restoration projects and research into effective disease management strategies.

Summary

SB85, also known as the Continued Rapid Ohia Death Response Act of 2025, is focused on addressing the significant threat posed by the Rapid Ohia Death fungus, which has devastated over 1,000,000 native trees in Hawaii. The bill mandates a partnership among the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of Agriculture, and the State of Hawaii to implement measures against the spread of this disease and to promote the restoration of affected forests. This collaboration aims to strengthen efforts for identifying resistant tree species and restoring the ecological balance in Hawaii's forests.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding SB85 is the balance between necessary intervention and the natural management of Hawaii's unique ecosystems. While supporters advocate for the bill as a crucial step towards preservation and restoration, concerns have been raised regarding the potential implications of government intervention on native forest ecosystems. Critics argue that while funding and management efforts are essential, they should be carefully tailored to avoid disrupting the natural ecological processes that have evolved in Hawaii's forests.

Congress_id

119-S-85

Policy_area

Animals

Introduced_date

2025-01-14