Press Releases

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Representative Ed Case (D-HI-01) has introduced legislation in the U.S. House to address invasive species, which he referred to as a “critical and growing challenge that severely impacts our environment.”

Case, joined by U.S. Representative James Moylan (R-Guam), introduced the Invasive Species Response Act (Act) to significantly expand federal efforts to combat invasive species, which are severely impacting environments across the country including widespread ripple-effect consequences beyond areas already impacted by non-native plants, animals and pathogens.

“Hawai‘i in particular faces unique challenges from invasive species. Its isolation has led to the evolution of many endemic species that are found nowhere else on Earth,” said Case in remarks to the House. 

“Unfortunately, these native species often lack the defenses to compete with or resist the pressures of invasive plants and animals, which can rapidly alter ecosystems and displace local species.

“In Hawai‘i, invasive species have caused significant ecological damage, threatening the survival of native birds and plants. Protecting Hawaii’s unique biodiversity is not just an environmental necessity – it is a cultural imperative that reflects the identity and heritage of the Hawaiian people.”

“I’m proud to introduce this legislation with my friend and colleague Rep. Case,” said Congressman Moylan. “This is an important step in controlling and eradicating invasive species and protecting America’s native wildlife, especially in our island communities. This bill provides the tools needed to continue conservation efforts, making them more effective and transparent.”

The measure was introduced as federal invasive species experts were touring O‘ahu to research the effects of invasive species on island communities. They will produce a report to advise the U.S. government how it can help Hawai‘i and island territories, as well as associated Micronesian nations.

"With nearly a third of endangered and threatened species in the United States being Hawaiian, we are known as the 'extinction capital of the world,'” said “Jonee” Kaina Peters, Executive Director for Conservation Council for Hawai‘i.

“One of the major contributing factors to this heartbreaking fact is that over 5,000 invasive species have been introduced to Hawai‘i, destroying native wildlife as they take-over our formerly thriving and biodiverse ecosystems.

“We’re grateful to Congressman Case for introducing a bill that would authorize critical programs to help eradicate invasive species through prevention, early detection, and rapid response measures.”

“Invasive species threaten native wildlife and ecosystems across our national wildlife refuges,” said Lindsay Gardner, Director of Marine Conservation, National Wildlife Federation.

“We thank Representatives Case and Moylan for introducing a bipartisan bill that provides much-needed funding and sets up strike teams that tackle the threat of invasive species to national wildlife refuges – and help landowners, Tribal Governments, states, and other federal agencies tackle these threats as well.”

"Invasive species pose a national threat to critical habitat, hunting, fishing, and boating access. We applaud Representatives Case and Moylan for introducing the Invasive Species Response Act, which would help improve Federal early detection and rapid response efforts to help prevent the spread of invasives into new areas," said Chris Macaluso, Director for the Center of Marine Fisheries at the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership.

Case continued: “Invasive species are not just a localized problem; they pose a significant threat to the integrity of our natural world. Addressing this crisis requires a coordinated and comprehensive approach, focusing on prevention, early detection, and effective management strategies to safeguard our vulnerable ecosystems.

“This legislation will codify the existing Invasive Species Strike Teams program currently operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS). These specialized teams play an essential role in managing emerging invasive species, employing strategies tailored to local conditions across the National Wildlife Refuge System. With 21 teams strategically positioned in various FWS regions, they are on the front lines, addressing the unique challenges posed by invasive species.”

Case said the Act signifies a transformative shift within the FWS, moving from a reactive, species-by-species approach to a more strategic, ecosystem-wide framework for managing emerging invasive species. Key provisions of the bill include formally establishing the Invasive Species Strike Teams program, which will create a stable and legally supported framework to ensure consistent funding and enhance management efforts.

“The Act also mandates enhanced coordination and reporting through integrated systems and standardized procedures, ensuring transparency and enabling us to track progress with annual reports to Congress and the public,” said Case.

“Furthermore, it authorizes $15 million annually from Fiscal Year 2025 through 2029, aligning with current FWS investment levels to support ongoing initiatives.”

·      Link to the act is here.
·      Link to Case’s remarks is here

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