Mar. 09, 2020
HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania’s spotted lanternfly quarantine zone has expanded to include Blair County, meaning local businesses may need to obtain a permit showing a manager or supervisor completed an online course, according to Rep. Jim Gregory (R-Blair).
Businesses that have vehicles transporting goods need to obtain a permit. This applies to activities within Blair County and across county lines.
Failure to obtain a permit can lead to fines up to $300 for a criminal citation or up to $20,000 for a civil penalty.
Last week, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture added 12 counties to the quarantine zone in an attempt to limit the spread of this invasive insect.
“Agriculture is the leading industry in Pennsylvania, and spotted lanternfly has wreaked havoc on production in other parts of the state since 2014. We need to do our part to try to control it,” Gregory said.
Spotted lanternfly threatens grape and other fruit trees, hardwoods, and the landscaping and nursery industries.
The free online course is on the Penn State Extension website. Participants who complete the course will be given a permit.
More information is available here.
Recordkeeping of training, inspection of vehicles and control measures taken must be maintained by a business for a minimum of two years.
Representative Jim Gregory
80th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Jennifer Fitch
717.260.6335
jfitch@pahousegop.com
RepGregory.com /
Facebook.com/RepJimGregory