Congressman Chip Roy of Texas has reached out to U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Ronald D. Johnson, through a letter, urging immediate action against the New World Screwworm (NWS). This insect pest has been detected as far north as Veracruz, Mexico, approximately 700 miles from the U.S. border.
“The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reported that the NWS has recently been detected as far north as the Mexican state of Veracruz,” stated Congressman Roy. He warned of potential economic damage if an outbreak occurs in Texas, estimating losses could reach $1.8 billion and significantly impact ranchers’ livelihoods.
While acknowledging some efforts by Mexico to contain the spread, Congressman Roy emphasized their insufficiency and urged Ambassador Johnson to use diplomatic means to encourage more aggressive actions from Mexican authorities. “I respectfully request that you leverage all available diplomatic tools to urge the Mexican authorities to fully cooperate with U.S. officials,” he wrote.
The congressman highlighted concerns for his constituents in Texas’s 21st congressional district who depend on ranching and cannot afford any delays in addressing this issue.
