The latest I got from LSU ( Louisiana State University ) that the AHB is here and spreading from Tx eastward and northward.
Going eastward to where is a ? Same for northwards. The AHB has been found in AR, OK, and now LA, confirmed. We all know about westward HO.
The beekeeping methods will have to be modified and your state Bee People will have to implement an education program to inform and hopefully educate the public about the AHB.
The various municipal protective services, Fire dept/EMS, Cops, etc will have to be educated to know how to differentiate between the good, the bad and the ugly bees.
Bee Keepers, at least those who will want to continue with the possibility of having to cope with agressive bees, will have to be more alert to the hives disposition. The feral colony removers will have to take precautions above and beyound what they are currently taking to remove colonies and it will be wise to carry liability insurance.
Re-Queening often with known docile stock will more than likely be the surest way to keep the hives manageable.
It is believed that it will be impossible to keep the AHB influence completly at bay no matter what practices bee keepers employ.
I was treated to this information by the LSU bee lab people recently at the
www.labeekeepersassociation.org recent meeting this past 2-3 DEC.
In short, the bees be here, and, the bees be staying.