Tropical Plant Health Initiative Act

## Summary This bill, titled the *Tropical Plant Health Initiative Act*, would amend the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 to expand federal support for research and outreach programs addressing pests and diseases that harm tropical plants. Sponsored by Senators Hirono and Schatz (both from Hawaii), the bill aims to protect economically vital tropical crops like coffee, macadamia nuts, cacao, bananas, plantains, mangos, and vanilla by funding science-based solutions. It authorizes grants for projects that develop pest control tools, implement coordinated pest management programs in affected regions, gather data on plant health, study plant biology and genetics, and explore factors affecting plant immunity and threats. The bill also extends funding authorization for these grants through 2030, ensuring long-term support for tropical agriculture. The legislation addresses gaps in pest research for tropical plants, which are critical to U.S. territories and states like Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and Guam. By promoting sustainable pest management and improving understanding of tropical plant health, the bill seeks to bolster food security, protect ecosystems, and support farmers and industries reliant on these crops. ## Key Points - New Grant Focus: Adds tropical plant health as an explicit priority for research and extension grants under the 1990 Act, targeting pests and weeds that threaten crops like coffee, bananas, and vanilla. - Areawide Pest Management: Authorizes programs to coordinate pest control efforts across entire regions where tropical plants are grown, improving effectiveness. - Data Collection: Requires surveys to monitor production trends and health issues in tropical plants, aiding targeted interventions. - Scientific Research: Encourages studies on plant biology, genomics, and immune systems to develop resilient crop varieties and treatments. - Extended Funding: Reauthorizes funding for these grants through 2030, ensuring sustained research and support. ## Impact Areas - Primary: Farmers and agricultural industries in tropical regions of the U.S. (e.g., Hawaii, Puerto Rico) growing crops like coffee, macadamia, and cacao. - Secondary: Nurseries, floriculture businesses, and local economies dependent on tropical plant exports. - Additional: Environmental conservation efforts, as improved pest control could reduce ecological damage from invasive species, and scientific advancements in sustainable agriculture. *Note: The bill was introduced in September 2025 and is under committee review; its status and details may evolve.*