John Fetterman

Most Pennsylvanians have probably come across, or even killed, a Spotted Lanternfly — an invasive species that threatens long-term damage.

Now the little red, black and gray bugs could have research, backed by legislation, to thwart them, in addition to stomping citizens.

Both of Pennsylvania’s U.S. senators, John Fetterman and Dave McCormick, along with Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden and New York Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, jointly introduced the “Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act,” naming study of the invasive insects as a “high-priority research initiative” for the National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

The bill amends the 1990 Food, Agriculture, Conservation and Trade Act by adding language for research and extension grants, for the purpose to combat the Spotted Lanternfly.

Fetterman, in a press release, said the species has cost Pennsylvania “millions of dollars and thousands of jobs.”

“Spotted Lanternflies have ravaged crops that are critical to Pennsylvania’s economy including grapevines, apples, peaches, hops and more,” Fetterman said.

The release said studies estimate they could cost $324 million annually in damage.

Scurrying across at least 51 counties in the state, this year’s batch of Spotted Lanternflies are reaching maturity and will start laying eggs from September through December.

They feed on sap from over 70 different plant species, which can stress plants out and lead to plant death, according to Penn State Extension.

While they feed, they also secrete a sugary substance that promotes mold growth and can attract other insects.

McCormick, in the press release, said investing in research will protect farms, strengthen the agriculture economy and control the species.

“Pennsylvania’s farmers work hard to produce some of the best agricultural products in the world, and it’s concerning that their hard work is at risk of being eaten away by pests,” McCormick said.