Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (15th District of Texas)
Pushes for more action on Mexico’s water debt and New World Screwworm prevention efforts
Contact: Alexis Torres
Brownsville, Texas—Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34) released the following statement regarding the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary, Brooke Rollins, scheduled visit to the Rio Grande Valley today:
“In addition to facing escalating operational expenses and trade volatility stemming from the Administration’s tariff policies, South Texas agricultural producers must also navigate severe water shortages and the approaching threat of the New World Screwworm along the southern border. While I’m pleased the Secretary of USDA is on the ground to hear directly from those impacted in our community, these ongoing issues will continue to require an all-hands-on-deck approach at the federal, state and local levels.
“Too often, Mexico fails to make timely water payments to the United States, leaving South Texas to bear an economic burden that is costing jobs and devastating crops. I remain cautiously optimistic that a recent understanding between our two nations will get us the water that is rightfully owed, but persistent shortfalls in payments are proof that better enforcement is necessary. This July, the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) will be up for renegotiation, and it provides our nation with a real opportunity to uphold Mexico’s end of the 1944 Water Treaty. In addition to maintaining pressure, I am fighting for more federal investments that improve our region’s infrastructure to collect, store and deliver vital resources sustainably across South Texas.
“Meanwhile, I’ve spoken to USDA experts and scientists about the resurgence of the New World Screwworm and the dangers it poses to the livelihoods of South Texas ranchers. The grand opening of a new USDA facility to increase sterile fly dispersal is welcomed news, as well as the State’s recent issuance of a disaster declaration. However, time is quickly running out to protect Texas’s $15 billion cattle industry. That is why I am also advocating for Congress to intervene, so we can prevent and eradicate this pest from upending our livestock and food supply.
“There’s still much work to do, but I remain committed to ensuring our agricultural community has the adequate federal resources and support to continue to thrive.”