On Wednesday, May 24, the House Financial Services Committee held a “markup” to debate and vote on amendments and bills to send to the House Floor for consideration by the entire House of Representatives. 

From bills to strengthen retirement savings to provide resources for startups and increasing investor opportunities, we are focused on providing a financial sector that allows everyone to succeed regardless of socio-economic status, not just the wealthy. 

Learn more about the bills we voted on here. 

On Thursday, May 18, I re-introduced a bipartisan bill H.R. 3464, the Affordable Homeownership Access Act, with my colleague, Congressman Andy Barr (KY-06). 

Owning a home is more than just putting a roof over your head. Homeownership builds generational wealth by improving credit, building equity, and enhancing financial stability. Expanding lending options for low-and-middle-income Americans means helping South Texans achieve economic mobility and the American dream. 

Read more about the bill here. 

On Monday, May 22, I joined U.S. Representatives Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Tony Gonzales (TX-23), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), and Gabe Vasquez (NM-2) to introduce H.R. 3135, the Land Port of Entry (LPOE) Modernization Trust Fund Act.

 
This bill will create a fund solely for the construction and modernization of new ports of entry and the hiring of additional U.S. Customs and Border Protection staff. 

South Texas’ ports of entry are vital to our economy and trade supply chain. With increasing commercial, vehicle, and pedestrian traffic, it’s important that our ports of entry are updated and equipped to accommodate that demand. 

Read more about the bill here. 

On Friday, May 25, I joined our Brownsville and St. Joseph’s Academy community to celebrate Coach Villarreal’s decades of service. 

Coach Villarreal embodies what it means to be a leader and team player. I am glad we could gather to honor his legacy.  

On Tuesday, May 16, I spoke with Chevron marketers and retailers about the importance of the American oil and gas industry. 

America produces the cleanest oil and gas in the world. Reliance on other nations only leads to higher prices and a lesser product. We have made great strides in the past few years to ramp up production here at home, but we still have more work to do. 

Last week, my Northern District Director, Albert Martinez, presented World War II Navy veteran, Amadeo Salinas with a flag flow over the U.S. Capitol and a certificate of recognition for his honorable and brave service to our country. 

On Tuesday, May 16, my District Director, Laura Matamoros, attended the celebration of two $5 million expansions to federal grants focused on K-12 students in the Rio Grande Valley. Funds from these grants will go towards initiatives that support mental health resources for students and more mental health professional in South Texas. 

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Remember to check in on your friends and loved ones. If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, call 9-8-8 to speak with a professional. This Lifeline provides direct connection to free and confidential support.

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