Spotted lanternflies have returned in high numbers across Pennsylvania, infesting more than 50 counties and threatening local crops like grapes, peaches, and apples. The bill would add the spotted lanternfly as a “high-priority research initiative” under the National Institute of Food and Agriculture. The invasive insects feed on a range of plants and crops, including grapevines, apples, peaches and hops. It is estimated that spotted lanternflies could cost Pennsylvania’s economy as much as $324 million annually if their spread is not contained. New spotted lanternflies most commonly hatch during early summer before growing their distinctive red-with-black-polka-dot wings in July.