Every now and then, something reminds us just how connected we are to the land, the livestock, and the rural communities that make Texas such a special place to call home. For many of us, that connection shows up in small, everyday ways — checking on a calf after a cold front, helping a kid prepare for a stock show, or visiting with neighbors about how the season’s shaping up. These moments ground us, and they remind us that protecting Texas agriculture isn’t just an industry priority — it’s part of who we are, and it’s worth protecting.
With that, here’s an update from your State Capitol…
Capitol Update
This past week, the House Committees on Agriculture & Livestock and Culture, Recreation & Tourism announced a joint-interim hearing to take a closer look at a developing concern for our livestock industry: the reappearance of the New World Screwworm fly. The hearing, set for December 9th at the Capitol, will feature invited testimony from experts, and the proceedings will be available for Texans to watch online.
For many, the screwworm fly may be unfamiliar — and given its history, that’s a blessing. Decades ago, this pest caused devastating losses for ranchers across the United States. Through an aggressive and innovative eradication program, the screwworm was eliminated from our country, allowing Texas ranchers and wildlife populations to thrive without the constant threat of infestation.
Unfortunately, recent developments in South Texas have prompted renewed concern. In October, federal and state officials confirmed isolated cases of the screwworm in livestock, triggering an immediate response from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. That effort now includes enhanced surveillance, expanded trap deployment, and renewed coordination with Texas A&M AgriLife, veterinarians, and producers who are keeping a close eye on their herds and reporting any suspicious symptoms.
While these cases remain contained, the potential impact of a broader spread cannot be overstated. Texas leads the nation in cattle production, and our wildlife — particularly white-tailed deer — could also face serious risks if the screwworm gains a foothold. This is precisely why the upcoming interim hearing is so important. It provides lawmakers the opportunity to evaluate our preparedness, understand current response efforts, and determine whether additional resources or legislative tools may be necessary.
As we enter the interim, I look forward to working with members on this committee, as well as our agricultural partners, state agencies, and industry leaders, to ensure Texas remains vigilant and prepared to respond. Safeguarding our livestock isn’t just about protecting an economic engine — it’s about preserving our heritage, strengthening our rural communities, and ensuring future generations can enjoy the same proud traditions we hold dear today.
The mobile office is taking a break from the road in December but will be back after the Christmas holiday. As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office if we can help you in any way. My district office may be reached at (936) 634-2762, and our Capitol office at (512) 463-0508. Additionally, I welcome you to follow along on my Official Facebook Page, where I will post regular updates on what’s happening in your State Capitol and share information that could be useful to you and your family: https://www.facebook.com/RepTrentAshby/.
