09/05/2026
San Antonio has once again been called to the front line of protecting Texas.
As the New World screwworm spreads in Texas, has been selected for crucial research that can strengthen our ability to detect, contain, and ultimately defeat this dangerous parasite.
This is not just an agricultural issue. Screwworm can threaten livestock, wildlife, pets, our food supply, rural economies, and even human health.
As we prepare for the next legislative session, I look forward to working with Texas Biomed, animal-health officials, agricultural producers, veterinarians, emergency-management partners, and public-health experts on comprehensive screwworm readiness legislation.
Our priorities must include:
• Early detection and statewide surveillance
• Rapid reporting and coordinated emergency response
• Laboratory and research capacity
• Veterinary training, treatment access, and public education
• Protection for livestock producers and affected rural communities
• Clear coordination among state, local, and federal agencies
San Antonio has the research expertise. Texas must provide the readiness framework and resources to match it.
We cannot wait until this threat becomes a full-scale crisis. We must prepare now.
[Read the KSAT report]
https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2026/09/03/san-antonio-chosen-as-site-for-important-new-world-screwworm-research-as-infection-spreads-in-texas/
A company working to stop the spread of the New World screwworm has chosen Texas Biomedical Research Institute in San Antonio as the site for major new research, a project expected to bring 40 jobs and support efforts to protect Texas livestock, wildlife and pets.
