This is the response I got today from my rep. Candice Miller of Michigan Sounds like she is pro-H.R. 669 doesn't it? The thing is, were zebra mussels introduced to Michigan as pets that were released? ....

Thank you for contacting my office regarding the issue of the Nonnative Wildlife Invasive Prevention Act, H.R. 669. I appreciate hearing from you on this critical topic, and, as always, I am pleased for the opportunity to respond to my constituents.



The Nonnative Wildlife Invasive Prevention Act assesses the risk of all species that are not native to the United States being considered for importation into our country. If this Act were implemented, all nonnative species, except those on a preapproved list, would be evaluated based on a certain criteria, such as: whether the species causes hurt to the economy, the environment, other animal species or human health. The range of the species and likelihood that it would spread throughout the United States would also be evaluated.



One of my goals since I have come to public office is to protect the Great Lakes. The Great Lakes are one of our national treasures and they help to define a way of life for Michigan. The lakes help drive Michigan's industries, bring tourism to our state, and allow Michiganders to spend their leisure time enjoying recreation sports, such as boating.



The Great Lakes are an invaluable resource to Michigan. However, they are constantly under threat. One of the greatest threats facing the Great Lakes are invasive species that wreak havoc on the Lakes' delicate ecosystem. Invasive species pose a serious problem to the Great Lakes because, among other things, they kill off the Lakes' native species. Food sources and habitats that fish rely upon have been ruined by invasive species causing native species of fish to disappear.



In addition to devastating the Lakes' native populations, invasive species like the zebra muscle, have caused devastating economic effects. Water intake pipes necessary to businesses, including nuclear plants, are destroyed because of this invasive species. They also cause damages to recreational water crafts that cost are expensive to fix.I will continue to work through the legislative process to protect our environment from the threat of invasive species.



Again, thank you for your correspondence regarding this important issue. I will continue working with my colleagues to represent the best interests of the citizens of Michigan's 10th District. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office. For other statements and press releases regarding this issue and others, you may visit my website at http://candicemiller.house.gov.