The U.S. Senate has introduced bipartisan legislation to address a growing threat to the American livestock industry: the invasive Asian longhorned tick (ALHT). Led by U.S. Sen. Eric Schmitt, R-Mo., along with Sens. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., and Jim Justice, R-W.Va., the Emerging Tick-Borne Livestock Disease Research Prioritization Act seeks to fast-track scientific solutions for devastating vector-borne diseases.
“Missouri is one of the nation’s leaders in livestock production and our farmers and ranchers work too hard to have their livelihoods threatened by emerging tick-borne diseases,” says Schmitt. “Invasive species like the Asian longhorned tick pose a growing risk to our livestock industry and the families who depend on it. By elevating the need for critical research into tick-borne livestock disease, we’re helping ensure producers have the tools they need to protect their herds, strengthen our food supply, and keep America’s agriculture industry competitive.”
Why the Asian Longhorned Tick Threatens U.S. Cattle
ALHT has spread aggressively throughout Midwest and East Coast pastures. This invasive pest transmits a bloodborne parasite that causes theileriosis, a disease that leads to severe anemia, weakness, reproductive failure, and death in livestock.
Because there are currently no approved vaccines or highly effective treatments for theileriosis in the U.S., a single infected animal can cost livestock producers thousands of dollars.
This threat emerges at a critical time. The national cattle herd size is currently at its lowest level in 75 years, putting unprecedented economic pressure on farmers and ranchers.
Key Provisions of the Legislation
If passed, the Emerging Tick-Borne Livestock Disease Research Prioritization Act will:
- Elevate USDA Research Status: Legally elevate tick-borne livestock disease to a high-priority research designation, ensuring long-term focus from federal scientists.
- Fund Scientific Innovation: Authorize the USDA to award competitive grants within existing budgets specifically for developing vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostic tools.
- Deploy Practical Field Solutions: Fund agricultural extension services to educate ranchers on land and herd management practices to control tick populations.
What Industry and Academic Leaders Say
Protecting herds from biosecurity threats is critical to maintaining a stable and affordable domestic food supply.
“The Asian longhorned tick is a rapidly growing threat to cattle and humans, with more research needed to combat this pest and the infectious diseases it carries,” says Sigrid Johannes, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) senior director of government affairs. “This legislation would fund critical research and education efforts that will improve cattle health, animal welfare and the long-term financial stability of farmers and ranchers.”
Mike Deering, Missouri Cattlemen’s Association executive vice president, says, “We met with Senator Schmitt and his team multiple times about the emergency in the U.S. cattle herd created by the Asian longhorned tick. He listened and went to work. Missouri producers are facing serious losses and lack tools to deploy to address the issue. We need research now that will lead to solutions as quickly as possible.”
Christopher Daubert, vice chancellor and dean of the University of Missouri’s College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR), adds, “Emerging tick-borne livestock diseases are a growing concern, and our role is to turn research into real-world solutions through innovation, Extension, and partnerships with producers. Senator Schmitt’s legislation recognizes the importance of investing in research and Extension so we can continue equipping livestock producers with the tools they need.”
Garrett Hawkins, Missouri Farm Bureau president, summarizes, “When farmers invest their time, money and care into their animals, they need clear answers about the diseases that threaten them. Prioritizing research on tick-borne illnesses will help producers respond when disease strikes. Better data, improved diagnostics and stronger management tools all begin with focused scientific research.”
Your Next Reads:
- Anaplasmosis vs. Theileriosis: What Cattle Producers Really Need to Know
- Vigilance, Not Panic: 5 Hard Realities of Managing the Asian Longhorned Tick
- They Exploded Overnight: East Tennessee Producer Battles Asian Longhorned Tick Outbreak
- Asian Longhorned Tick Is On the Move: 10 Things Cattle Producers Must Know
