De La Cruz, Monica RSS Articles

De La Cruz Imposes Consequences for Mexico's Refusal to Comply with the 1944 Water Treaty

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) introduced the Water Assurance and Treaty Enforcement for Rio Grande Farmers Act (WATER for Farmers Act). The legislation will impose tariffs on Mexico if they refuse to comply with the 1944 Water Treaty. The funds collected from the tariffs will be allocated to the South Texas farmers impacted by missed water deliveries.

De La Cruz introduced the legislation alongside Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14), Congressman Michael Cloud (TX-27), and Congressman Troy Nehls (TX-22). Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) introduced the legislation in the Senate.

"For too long, the Mexican government has refused to comply with the 1944 Water Treaty, and South Texas farmers have faced the consequences. It's time to hold the Mexican government to their agreed-upon water deliveries, and, if not, impose tariffs to support the farmers who have suffered due to their inaction." – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

Background:
Under the 1944 Water Treaty, the Government of Mexico is required to deliver 350,000 acre-feet of water per year to the United States over a five-year cycle. However, consistent delivery delays have resulted in devastating economic consequences for South Texas farmers, including the closure of the last sugar mill in Texas.

To address this crisis, the WATER for Farmers Act would impose tariffs on Mexico if the government continues to violate the treaty by withholding obligated water deliveries.

The duties collected from these tariffs would fund a new "South Texas Agricultural Compensation Trust Fund" within the U.S. Treasury. At the discretion of the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, this fund would provide financial compensation to South Texas farmers and producers who have suffered losses due to the Government of Mexico's non-compliance with the 1944 Water Treaty.

De La Cruz Announces Winners of 2026 TX-15 Congressional Art Competition

Wed, 27 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON - Congresswoman De La Cruz (TX-15) announced the winner of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for Texas's 15th District, Ashley Esparza from Achieve Early College High School. Ashley's piece, "Little Patriots, Big Dreams," was selected from entries submitted by high school artists across the district. As the first-place winner, Ashley's piece will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year alongside winning artwork from districts across the country.

De La Cruz also honored second-place winner Julisa Saenz from Edinburg North High School for her piece, "Freedom," and Gabbriella Gaines from Three Rivers Junior-Senior High School for her third-place piece, "I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Ice Cream."

"I am thrilled to congratulate Ashley on this incredible achievement! Her work beautifully captures the spirit of this year's theme, 'America 250', and it will be an inspirational and patriotic addition to the halls of the Capitol. I am proud of all the students who participated, and I hope you all continue to share your passion for creativity." - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

Little Patriots, Big Dreams by Ashley Esparza

Background:

Every spring, the Congressional Institute sponsors a nationwide high school visual arts competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent in the nation and each Congressional District. Since the competition began in 1982, more than 650,000 high school students have participated.

This year's competition was judged by a panel of educators and artists: Ashley Gonzalez from Edinburg Consolidated Independent School District (ECISD), Rigobert Gonzalez, University of Texas - Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), and Cecilia Garza, South Texas artist.

For more information about the annual art competition, please visit our website here

De La Cruz Introduces Legislation to Honor Local War Hero, Lance Corporal Dustin Sekula

Thu, 21 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz introduced the Lance Corporal Dustin Sekula Congressional Gold Medal Act. The bill would posthumously award the Congressional Gold Medal to Edinburg, Texas, native Lance Corporal Dustin Sekula. The legislation seeks to honor Sekula's courageous service and ultimate sacrifice for his country.

Lance Corporal Sekula was the first Edinburg native to be killed during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was just 18 years old when he died on April 1, 2004, after sustaining injuries from enemy fire in Iraq. A proud Marine, Sekula had turned down an agriculture college scholarship to join the military at the age of 17, driven by a desire to serve and protect the United States.

The medal would be presented to Sekula's family in recognition of his heroic life and the lasting impact he has had on his community and his country. His legacy continues in Edinburg, where the Dustin Sekula Memorial Library stands as a tribute to his memory.

“Lance Corporal Dustin Sekula made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom, and this bill ensures that his bravery and service are honored at the highest level. His story is one of unwavering dedication to his family, his community, and his country. We must never forget his courage and sacrifice.” - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

De La Cruz Honors Texas Law Enforcement for National Police Week

Fri, 15 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON - In honor of National Police Week, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) recognized the selfless service and achievements of Texas law enforcement on the House floor.

De La Cruz hosts Major Fred Whisenant, Trooper Juan Zuniga, and Trooper Roman Gonzalez of the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Honor Guard in Washington, D.C.

Trooper Juan Zuniga and Trooper Roman Gonzalez of the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Honor Guard

In honor of National Police Week, I rise to recognize two exceptional officers from Texas’ 15th Congressional District, Trooper Juan Zuniga and Trooper Roman Gonzalez.

Trooper Zuniga, a McAllen native, has spent over 12 years protecting the citizens of our state. Since graduating from the Department of Public Safety Academy in 2013, he has served as a mentor and a highly skilled expert in crash reconstruction and drug recognition.
Edinburg native, Trooper Roman Gonzalez, has led a life defined by sacrifice. Before his 17-year career as a Trooper, Roman served as a U.S. Marine in Iraq, where he earned the Combat Action Ribbon for his courage on the front lines.

Both of these men continue to go above and beyond as members of the elite Texas DPS Honor Guard. They ensure that our fallen heroes are laid to rest with dignity, precision, and respect.

Troopers Zuniga and Gonzalez represent the very best of South Texas. Thank you for your service.

Watch the full speech here.

Police Chief Jaime Ayala of the Edinburg Police Department

I rise to recognize Police Chief Jaime Ayala of the Edinburg Police Department, who was recently awarded the Mike Gentry Executive Leadership Award by the Texas Police Chiefs Association.

This award is reserved for those who embody exceptional leadership in law enforcement.

Since stepping into his role, Chief Ayala has shifted the department’s focus from simply responding to crime to actively preventing it.

By building a proactive agency and deploying drones for real-time emergency responses, he has ensured that Edinburg remains at the cutting edge of public safety innovation.

Under his leadership, the Edinburg Police Department was awarded the Rio Grande Valley’s Favorite Law Enforcement Agency for the third year in a row.
This honor reflects his team’s deep commitment to serving and connecting with our community. Congratulations to Chief Ayala on this incredible achievement!

Watch the full speech here.

Sergeant Joshua Roque of the Jim Wells County Sheriff’s Office
I rise today to honor Alice-native Sergeant Joshua Roque for his outstanding service and leadership at the Jim Wells County Sheriff’s Office.

Since joining the department six years ago, Sgt. Roque has demonstrated an exceptional work ethic and leadership. Moving from his role as a Correctional Officer to Patrol Sergeant, he has distinguished himself not only as a Deputy but also as a resilient member of the SWAT team.

He is known throughout the agency for his professionalism and positive attitude that he brings to every shift.

Whether he is supervising his squad or making critical decisions under pressure, he leads with integrity.

Thank you, Sergeant Roque, for your dedication to public safety and unwavering commitment to the mission of the Jim Wells County Sheriff’s Office.

Watch the full speech here.

PHOTOS: De La Cruz Celebrates Local Business Owners, New Rec Center in the Rio Grande Valley

Thu, 07 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON - In honor of Small Business Week, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) and the RGV Partnership recognized the vital contributions of South Texas small business owners who have made an impact in the Rio Grande Valley community.

Following the event, De La Cruz joined the City of San Juan for the grand opening of the new recreation center. Having secured $2 million for the facility in FY24, she joined local leaders to celebrate the project officially coming to life.

De La Cruz honors Gilbert Morin Perez, owner of Fresh Coat Painters of McAllen and winner of the Veteran-Owned Small Business of the Year, with a special certificate of Congressional recognition.

De La Cruz joins City of San Juan officials and community leaders to celebrate the opening of the San Juan Parks and Recreation facility. In FY24, De La Cruz secured $2M in federal funding to bring this project to fruition.

De La Cruz, Texas Delegation Push for JBSA-Lackland to Host Space Force

Tue, 05 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) and members of the Texas Congressional Delegation sent a letter to the Department of the Air Force urging the selection of Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland (JBSA-Lackland) as the permanent headquarters for the United States Space Force component to U.S. Cyber Command (SPACEFOR-CYBER).

In the letter, the lawmakers outline why San Antonio is the premier choice to support the intersection of military and space interests. By leveraging existing infrastructure at JBSA-Lackland, the current home of the Sixteenth Air Force (Air Forces Cyber), the Air Force can ensure operations can begin immediately and efficiently.

The letter is co-signed by Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Representatives Brian Babin (TX-36), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), Nathaniel Moran (TX-01), Randy Weber (TX-14), August Pfluger (TX-11), Michael McCaul, (TX-10) Lance Gooden (TX-05), Keith Self (TX-03), Pat Fallon (TX-04), Ronny Jackson (TX-13), Morgan Luttrell (TX-08), Michael Cloud (TX-27), Craig Goldman (TX-12), Brandon Gill (TX-26), and Troy Nehls (TX-22).

Read the full letter here or below.

Dear Secretary Meink,

As members of the Texas Congressional Delegation, we are writing in support of Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland (JBSA-Lackland) to be selected as the permanent home of the United States Space Force component to U.S. Cyber Command (SPACEFOR-CYBER). Under President Trump’s leadership, the United States Space Force has been at the intersection of the country’s military and space interests. To continue this important mission, JBSA-Lackland offers a uniquely powerful combination of operational infrastructure, geographic advantages, and a skilled workforce prepared to serve our country.

The Sixteenth Air Force (Air Forces Cyber), the Air Force’s Information Warfare Numbered Air Force, is headquartered at JBSA–Lackland. Co-locating SPACEFOR-CYBER with the Sixteenth Air Force would immediately create deep operational synergy, shorten coordination timelines, and enhance unity across air, space, and cyber domains. Instead of building entirely new infrastructure, the Air Force would be leveraging an existing information warfare ecosystem.

As an urban hub, San Antonio is well-positioned to support the critical infrastructure that SPACEFOR-CYBER would provide. The greater San Antonio area is a cyber hub, often referred to as “Military City, USA,” with a dense concentration of intelligence, private-sector cyber, and information technology organizations. The presence of NSA Texas and other intelligence activities provides for efficient information sharing and rapid operational coordination in support of both U.S. Cyber Command and U.S. Space Command missions. The region’s proximity to NASA and coastal installations at Boca Chica, Texas, provides a strategic and unique opportunity for collaboration across agencies.

The city’s robust higher-education ecosystem, including universities such as the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) with strong programs in cybersecurity, computer science, engineering, and data science, provides a steady pipeline of highly skilled talent. The State of Texas, in collaboration with private enterprise, has consistently invested in cyber and defense-related initiatives, creating a business environment that attracts technology firms and defense contractors who can partner with SPACEFOR-CYBER on technological innovation and workforce development.

We urge you to select Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland as the permanent home of SPACEFOR-CYBER.

Thank you for your continued leadership in shaping the future of the Department of the Air Force and the United States Space Force.

De La Cruz Votes to Advance Farm Bill

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) voted in support of the passage of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, also known as the Farm Bill, on the House floor. The legislative package passed with bipartisan support.

"Food security is national security. As a member of the House Agriculture Committee, I am proud to deliver a major victory for South Texas farmers and producers. By passing the Farm Bill, we are reinforcing American agriculture’s global dominance and ensuring our farmers have the reliable water access they deserve. This is not just a bill; it’s a long-term investment in the future of Texas farming and our communities." - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

Background:
De La Cruz offered an amendment to establish a permanent, inter-agency working group led by the Secretary of Agriculture. The group will coordinate a strategy to protect South Texas farmers and producers from the impacts of the Government of Mexico’s failure to comply with water deliveries under the 1944 Water Treaty.

Additionally, this year's Farm Bill included three provisions led by De La Cruz:

Texas Agricultural Producers Assistance Act: Addresses the significant economic losses suffered by Texas ag producers due to the Mexican government’s non-compliance with the 1944 Water Treaty.
Southern Border Farmers and Ranchers Protection Act: Authorizes payments under the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) to assist farmers and ranchers with repairing damages to farming infrastructure caused by illegal criminal activity along the Southern border.
Cattle Fever Tick Eradication Program Enhancement Act: Mandates the USDA to enter into a contract to evaluate the Cattle Fever Tick Eradication Program with a land-grant college or university or a non-land-grant college of agriculture.

De La Cruz, Texas Delegation Urge Ambassadors Greer, Callahan to Include 1944 Water Treaty in USMCA

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15), along with a dozen members of the Texas Congressional Delegation, sent a letter to the United States Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Jamieson Greer and Chief Agricultural Negotiator Ambassador Julie Callahan, urging the Administration to use the upcoming USMCA renegotiations to ensure the Government of Mexico’s compliance with 1944 Water Treaty deliveries.

By incorporating strict enforcement mechanisms into the trade agreement, the Mexican government will face stricter consequences if they fail to comply with the 1944 Water Treaty delivery obligations.

The letter is co-signed by House Budget Committee Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19), House Small Business Committee Chairman Roger Williams (TX-25), Republican Study Committee Chairman August Pfluger (TX-11), Science, Space, and Technology Committee Chairman Brian Babin (TX-36), Congressman Michael Cloud (TX-27), Congressman Troy Nehls (TX-22), Congressman Lance Gooden (TX-05), Congressman Jake Ellzey (TX-06), Congressman Wesley Hunt (TX-38), Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14), Congressman Keith Self (TX-03), and Congressman Morgan Luttrell (TX-08).

Read the full letter here or below.

Dear Ambassador Greer and Ambassador Callahan,

We appreciate your team’s continued engagement with our offices as you prepare for the upcoming renegotiations of the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA). Since its enactment under the first Trump Administration in 2020, USMCA has delivered fairer market access for America’s agricultural producers. Through agreements struck since the beginning of the Administration, President Trump has reduced the agricultural trade deficit by 42%[1] and has opened key markets such as the European Union, China, India, and the United Kingdom to many American agricultural products. This increased market access will directly benefit the agriculture producers in our districts.

As the Administration moves forward with the USMCA’s mandatory review process, it is critical that your team prioritizes the elimination of trade deficits with Canada and Mexico, and seizes this opportunity to enforce Mexico’s on-time, annual payments of water deliveries from the 1944 Water Treaty.

Regions across the United States are experiencing drought conditions that have become exacerbated by Mexico’s disregard of the 1944 U.S.-Mexico Water Treaty. The treaty outlined specific thresholds of water quantities that each country must provide to the other, including Mexico’s responsibility to provide 350,000 acre-feet of water to the United States, annually.

For years, the Texas Delegation has been pursuing the repayment of Mexico’s water debt and the needed enforcement of the 1944 U.S.-Mexico Water Treaty. Secretary Rollins has worked extremely hard to get Mexico to deliver the water owed to us per year, but ultimately the United States remains at the mercy of Mexico’s compliance without any enforced consequences.

The effects of not including strong enforcement mechanisms for the 1944 U.S.-Mexico Water Treaty are clear. In 2023 alone, South Texas suffered an economic impact of almost $1 billion due to the water shortage.[2] This included the closure of the last sugar mill in Texas, resulting in the loss of 500 jobs and $100 million from the state’s economy. A long term solution to this perennial issue requires robust enforcement mechanisms.

Specifically, we ask for the inclusion of the following into the USMCA:

Annual, predictable and enforceable water deliveries; and,
Utilize the USMCA’s dispute settlement procedures to address instances of non-compliance; and,
Transparent monitoring and reporting to track water deliveries and identify potential violations; and,
Explore strict enforcement mechanisms for non-compliance with the 1944 U.S Mexico Water Treaty which USTR deems to properly manage trade relations and ensures adherence to the agreement.

Incorporating the 1944 U.S.-Mexico Water Treaty in the USMCA would prove more conducive to the resolution of the issue than any singular vow to resolve the existing water debt. Enforcement mechanisms would free South Texas communities from having to depend on Mexican goodwill for their prosperity.

Once again, thank you for your consideration. Please know our offices are willing and eager to assist any way we can.

De La Cruz Applauds Groundbreaking of Moore Air Base Sterile Fly Production Facility

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON - Today, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) released the statement below following U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins' groundbreaking of the Sterile Fly Production Facility at Moore Air Base.

“Today’s groundbreaking is a historic moment for South Texas, and I am thrilled to see this $750 million investment officially begin to take shape for our farmers and ranchers. I’m incredibly proud to have helped secure this facility and appreciate Secretary Rollins’ commitment to protecting Texas agriculture from the threat of the New World Screwworm. Together, we are taking a vital step to protect our cattle industry and keep our local agricultural community thriving.” - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

Background:
The New World Screwworm is a highly destructive parasitic fly that infests livestock and wildlife. In August 2025, USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins announced that $750 million would be invested in the construction of a new sterile fly production facility at Moore Air Base in Hidalgo County to combat the spread of the pest.

This announcement followed De La Cruz's advocacy during a House Committee on Agriculture hearing and her letter to Secretary Brooke Rollins proposing Moore Air Base as an ideal location for the facility.

Additionally, the Congresswoman has led legislative initiatives, including the New World Screwworm Preparedness Act, to ensure Texas agriculture is prepared to stop the New World Screwworm.

De La Cruz Hosts Roundtable with South Texas Immigration Lawyers

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) convened a roundtable discussion with South Texas immigration lawyers to hear their direct feedback on proposed immigration legislation.

"Advancing common-sense legislative solutions for South Texas families is my top priority. I convened a group of seasoned South Texas immigration lawyers to hear their feedback and experience. Firsthand insight is essential to ensure the immigration policies we put forward reflect the reality and values of South Texas." - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

Background:

De La Cruz has introduced common-sense legislation to fix the broken immigration system and address workforce shortages. These legislative efforts include: the Fair Wages for Farm Workers Act, the Bracero Program 2.0 Act, and the Texas Dreamer Work Authorization Act.

Additionally, De La Cruz has co-sponsored legislation, including the Essential Workers for Economic Advancement Act led by Congressman Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) and the Dignity Act led by Congresswoman Maria Salazar (FL-27).

Staff Mobile Office Hours

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 18:00:00 GMT

District staff will visit Live Oak County this month, ready to help you! If you need assistance with any federal agency -- the VA, Social Security, passport services, or anything else -- please plan a visit with a caseworker who can open an inquiry on your behalf.

July 18th, 2024
2 - 3p.m.
George West Library
402 Houston St
George West, TX 78022

Staff Mobile Office Hours

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 16:30:00 GMT

District staff will visit Live Oak County this month, ready to help you! If you need assistance with any federal agency -- the VA, Social Security, passport services, or anything else -- please plan a visit with a caseworker who can open an inquiry on your behalf.

July 18th, 2024
12:30 - 1:30 p.m.
Three Rivers Library
102 Leroy St
Three Rivers, TX 78071