Urging the federal government to take immediate action to curb the spread of the New World screwworm in Texas.
The resolution calls for multi-faceted federal intervention strategies to curb the spread of the New World screwworm. It urges the establishment of cooperative plans between the U.S. and Mexico to address the issue effectively. Specific requests include expediting the construction of a screwworm control facility at Moore Air Force Base in Texas, which is essential for research and treatment efforts. Moreover, it advocates for the swift approval of medications and pesticides by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, respectively, to mitigate infection risks.
HCR13 is a House Concurrent Resolution focused on urging the federal government to take immediate actions to combat the New World screwworm, a parasitic fly that poses a significant threat to livestock and, consequently, the Texas agricultural economy. The resolution highlights the serious implications of a potential screwworm outbreak, including an estimated economic damage of up to $1.8 billion, as the infestation can lead to livestock deaths and increased costs associated with treatment and labor. Urgency is underscored by the proximity of the parasite, which has been reported only 370 miles from the Texas border as of July 2025.
Although the resolution itself may have broad support due to the agricultural stakes involved, there could be underlying tensions regarding the allocation of responsibilities and resources among federal agencies. Additionally, stakeholders in livestock and agriculture might raise concerns about the adequacy of federal responses and the pace at which these measures are implemented. Specific interest groups may also scrutinize the environmental impact of increased pesticide use, which could lead to further debates on balancing immediate agricultural needs with ecological sustainability.