Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz | Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz Official Website
Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz | Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz Official Website
On Tuesday, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) called for action to ensure water deliveries from Mexico under a 1944 treaty, as the current water scarcity and drought conditions in South Texas continue to pose a threat to farmers and residents in the Rio Grande Valley.
Under the treaty, Mexico is obligated to provide the United States with an average of 350,000 acre-feet of water per year over a five-year cycle. However, Mexico has consistently waited until the end of the cycle to fulfill its water contribution, causing devastating crop and cattle losses for American farmers.
In a speech, Congresswoman De La Cruz emphasized the need for Mexico to honor the terms of the treaty, stating, "The Mexican government bears a responsibility to honor the terms of this treaty. American farmers and ranchers should not bear the burden of Mexico’s failure to uphold its end of the bargain."
She further added, "Through collaboration and diplomatic engagement, we can forge a framework for responsible water management that benefits both of our great nations. Let us stand united in ensuring that the promises of the 1944 Water Treaty are not just ink on paper, but a lifeline for the American farmers who feed our nation."
The resolution, co-sponsored by Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-TX) and supported by bipartisan Members of Congress, aims to support diplomatic relations and encourage Mexico to fulfill its commitments on an annual basis. It also acknowledges the water shortages faced by farmers in South Texas and supports negotiations for more predictable and reliable water deliveries to the United States.
Efforts are being made to ensure that the United States receives annual deliveries of at least 350,000 acre-feet of water under the treaty, as outlined in the resolution.
This issue is of critical importance to the agricultural community in South Texas, as the lack of consistent water deliveries continues to impact their livelihoods. By urging Mexico to fulfill its obligations, Congresswoman De La Cruz and her colleagues aim to alleviate the hardships faced by American farmers and ranchers in the region.
To learn more about the resolution and Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz's efforts, visit https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/h
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