Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana called on March 12 for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to allow the state to use a specific pesticide to address an infestation threatening rice crops. Kennedy, who serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee, sent a letter to EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin urging approval of buprofezin under emergency provisions.
The issue is significant because rice delphacids, invasive insects from South and Central America, have begun affecting Louisiana’s rice production after previously impacting Texas since 2015. The pests feed directly on rice plants and can spread diseases such as the rice hoja blanca virus, which can reduce crop yields.
In his letter, Kennedy said, “I write to express my concern regarding the emerging threat to Louisiana rice production posed by the rice delphacid. This invasive insect, originating in Central and South America, established itself in Texas in 2015 and has since been detected in Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mississippi. The pest damages rice by direct feeding, causing ‘hopperburn,’ and may also serve as a vector for rice hoja blanca virus, which can significantly reduce yields.”
Kennedy also highlighted economic challenges facing farmers: “The economic timing of this threat is particularly concerning. In late 2025, the price of rice per hundred pounds fell to its lowest level in nearly a decade. At the same time, producers continue to face elevated input costs.” He explained that Section 18 of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act allows for emergency exemptions for unregistered pesticide uses when needed.
“For these reasons,” Kennedy wrote, “I respectfully encourage the timely consideration of the Section 18 request submitted by the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry in December 2025. Ensuring that producers across the rice belt have the tools necessary to combat this growing threat is essential to protecting both farm viability and regional agricultural stability. I appreciate your attention to this important matter.”
According to the official website, U.S. Sen. John Kennedy engaged constituents via newsletters, town halls and public events according to the official website. He operated district offices throughout Louisiana including Alexandria, Baton Rouge, Lake Charles, Monroe, New Orleans and Shreveport according to the official website. Kennedy has advanced policies supporting veterans, farmers, small businesses and national security according to the official website. He chaired the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs while serving on several other committees including Appropriations according to the official website, representing all of Louisiana according to the official website.
Looking ahead, observers will watch how quickly EPA responds as farmers prepare for planting season amid ongoing threats from invasive pests.
