San Antonio Corridor News

Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz has introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at addressing Mexico's compliance with the 1944 Water Treaty. The bill, introduced with co-lead Rep. Henry Cuellar, seeks to enforce Mexico's adherence to the treaty through diplomatic means. The legislation mandates the Secretary of State to utilize various diplomatic tools to ensure compliance, with Senator Ted Cruz introducing the Senate counterpart to emphasize bipartisan support.

Agriculture in the Rio Grande Valley is heavily impacted by Mexico's inconsistent water deliveries owed to the United States under the treaty. The recent closure of the Rio Grande Valley Sugar Growers after 51 years of operation highlights the urgency of the situation, with South Texas farmers struggling due to unreliable water supplies.

Congresswoman De La Cruz called for stakeholders to unite in addressing Mexican compliance with the treaty, emphasizing the importance of protecting agricultural interests. The legislation has garnered support from various key cosponsors and prominent groups in Texas, including the Texas Farm Bureau, Texas International Produce Association, Texas Citrus Mutual, and the Rio Grande Valley Sugar Growers.

In response to the legislation, Sean Brashear, President and CEO of Rio Grande Valley Sugar Growers, expressed gratitude to Reps. De La Cruz and Cuellar for their efforts, urging all Members of Congress to support the bill. Russell Boening, President of the Texas Farm Bureau, highlighted the severe impact on Texas farmers and ranchers due to Mexico's failure to deliver water, emphasizing the need for accountability.

Dale Murden of Texas Citrus Mutual applauded the legislation for holding the State Department accountable for not adhering to the terms of the treaty, aiming to shed light on a long-standing issue. Similarly, Dante L Galeazzi of the Texas International Produce Association commended the congress members for bringing oversight and action to the issue after decades of inaction by the State Department.

The bipartisan resolution passed last year in the House, combined with the current legislation, reflects a united effort to address the pressing issue of Mexican compliance with the 1944 Water Treaty and safeguard vital agricultural interests in the region.