Press Releases

Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) expressed her support of Governor Greg Abbott’s directive to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to accept an offer of 120,000 acre-feet of San Juan River water from Mexico under the 1944 Water Treaty. This critical step will help provide much-needed water to the communities, farmers, and businesses of the Rio Grande Valley, addressing the immediate needs of the region during a time of significant water shortages.

“I am grateful for Governor Abbott’s proactive efforts to secure water resources for the Rio Grande Valley, which are essential for supporting our local communities, agriculture, and economic sustainability,” said Rep. De La Cruz. “By directing TCEQ to move forward with this water offer, Governor Abbott is demonstrating his commitment to ensuring that the people of South Texas have access to the resources they need to thrive.”

While this acceptance marks a necessary and positive development, Rep. De La Cruz underscores the importance of maintaining the fairness of water allocation practices. “We urge TCEQ to ensure that this water is not credited against current water allocations, aligning with the original intent of the 1944 Water Treaty,” De La Cruz emphasized. “It is vital that we uphold the integrity of this treaty to prevent further deficits and protect the long-term water rights of our region.”

Mexico’s ongoing failure to meet its obligations under the 1944 Water Treaty has placed Texas in a precarious position, with a projected deficit of 1.3 million acre-feet of water expected by October 2025. The congresswoman remains committed to advocating for solutions that hold Mexico accountable to its treaty commitments and secure a sustainable water future for South Texas.