Polk Times

Congressman Scott Franklin of Florida’s 18th district has expressed support for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) new measures to protect cattle from the New World Screwworm parasite. The USDA plan includes constructing a domestic sterile fly production facility and enhancing border monitoring efforts.

“The New World Screwworm is a deadly parasite that could cripple Florida’s cattle industry if it ever reached our pastures. Today’s announcement is the strongest action we’ve seen to keep this pest from destroying herds and inflicting severe economic damage. By building a sterile fly facility here in the United States and stepping up border monitoring, USDA is putting the right tools in place to protect our cattle before an outbreak occurs,” Franklin said in a statement.

Franklin emphasized the importance of Florida’s cattle producers to the state economy. “Florida’s cattle producers play a critical role in our state’s economy. I commend Secretary Brooke Rollins and President Trump for moving quickly to address this threat. Taking these steps now strengthens our defenses and gives ranchers the support they need to protect their livestock and sustain their operations.”

He also pledged continued efforts in Congress: “I will keep working in Congress to ensure our agriculture community is protected from foreign pests and diseases. With the right leadership and early action, we can keep Florida’s cattle industry strong and prepared for the challenges ahead.”

Franklin has represented Florida's 18th district since 2021, after replacing Ross Spano. He previously served in the Florida House of Representatives (https://franklin.house.gov/about). Born in Thomaston, Georgia, he currently resides in Lakeland at age 58 (https://bioguide.congress.gov/search/bio/F000474). Franklin graduated from the United States Naval Academy with a BA in 1986 and later attended Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University.