U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand has joined three colleagues in introducing a bipartisan bill that would make spotted lanternfly control a high-priority research initiative at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
The invasive insect threatens grapes and other specialty crops across New York, including vineyards in the Finger Lakes and Western New York. Cornell University researchers estimated in 2025 that an unchecked invasion could cost the state's grape industry more than $14 million during its first three years.
The Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act would direct the USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture to prioritize research on controlling the pest. Gillibrand said the designation would focus federal scientific resources on limiting its spread.
Spotted lanternflies also pose risks to crops on Long Island and in the Hudson Valley, according to Gillibrand's office. She said further spread could create significant economic losses for farmers already facing higher fuel and fertilizer costs.
Sens. John Fetterman and Dave McCormick of Pennsylvania and Ron Wyden of Oregon joined Gillibrand in introducing the measure. The release did not provide a timetable for committee action.
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