IV 118th CONGRESS 2d Session H. RES. 1098 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 20, 2024 Mr. Neguse (for himself, Mr. Joyce of Ohio , Mr. Case , and Mr. Buck ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Natural Resources RESOLUTION Supporting the designation of April 2024 as National Native Plant Month .

Whereas native plants are indigenous species that have evolved and occur naturally in a particular region, ecosystem, and habitat; Whereas there are more than 17,000 native plant species in the United States, which include trees, shrubs, vines, grasses, and wildflowers; Whereas native plants help prevent flooding, drought, and erosion and can help restore damaged ecosystems; Whereas native plants provide shelter as well as nectar, pollen, and seeds that serve as food for native butterflies, insects, birds, and other wildlife in ways that non-native plants cannot; Whereas more than 200 of the native plant species in the United States are estimated to have been lost since the early 19th century; Whereas habitat loss and degradation, extreme weather events, and invasive species have contributed to the decline of native plants in the United States; and Whereas native plants are essential components of resilient ecosystems and the natural heritage of the United States: Now, therefore, be it

That the House of Representatives— (1) supports the designation of National Native Plant Month ; and (2) recognizes the benefits of native plants to the environment and economy of the United States.