The House Resolution urges the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to expedite the testing and registration of a feral hog toxicant developed by LSU AgCenter, which utilizes sodium nitrite as its active ingredient. Feral hogs have become a significant problem in Louisiana, with a population nearing one million, causing extensive damage to agricultural lands, natural resources, and water systems. The economic impact of this damage is substantial, with losses estimated at over $90 million in Louisiana and more than $1.5 billion nationally. The resolution highlights the urgency of addressing this issue, as current EPA guidelines suggest that testing and approval could take up to ten years, potentially leading to further economic losses exceeding $15 billion during that time.

The resolution calls for the EPA to approve the LSU AgCenter's request for Limited Replicated Field Trials Exemption to facilitate the testing of the toxicant and emphasizes the need for prompt pesticide registration following appropriate testing and safety assessments. It also encourages Congress to support a swift review and approval process at the EPA, recognizing the critical need to combat the feral swine population to protect Louisiana's natural resources and agricultural economy. A copy of the resolution will be sent to relevant officials, including the EPA administrator and Louisiana's congressional delegation.