On Thursday, July 27, I re-introduced H.R. 4968, the GOLD Card Act with my colleague Dr. Burgess (R-TX). This bipartisan piece of legislation streamlines the costly and time-consuming prior authorization process, a hurdle to patient care and access to live-saving treatment. 

I’m sure that many of you all have had your care, or the care of a loved one, delayed due to prior authorization denials that eventually were approved or prevented entirely. I am proud to introduce legislation to remove barriers to care and allow patients and their providers to decide what’s best for them. 

To learn more about the bill, click here. 

On Friday, July 28, I introduced H.R. 5073, the Promoting Domestic Energy Production Act with U.S. Representative Mike Carey (R-OH) to unleash American energy independence.  

Our country must be ready to face the energy challenges of the next few decades and decrease our dependence on other nations for our energy needs. We need to bolster our domestic production capabilities and support American jobs. This legislation will put our energy companies on the same playing field as other American industries. 

Learn more about the bill, here. 

On Friday, July 21, I joined Hidalgo County Precinct 4 Commissioner, Ellie Torres, to celebrate the groundbreaking of the North Main Drain Expansion project. 

In 2022, I secured $3.7 million for this project through Congressional Community Project Funding requests. The North Main Drain is integral to Hidalgo County’s Master Drainage system and the expansion of the drain will help reduce flash floods, minimize the impacts of drought, and preserve our regions water resources.  

On Friday, July 28, I announced $11 million from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Operation Stonegarden program for law enforcement in the 34th District of Texas. 

This funding allows law enforcement to hire additional personnel, secure needed equipment, and support the deployment of law enforcement officers.  

The breakdown of funding is as follows: 

• Hidalgo County - $5,750,000 
• Cameron County - $4,000,000 
• Willacy County - $1,050,000 
• Kenedy County - $415,000 
• Kleberg County - $600,000 

On Wednesday, August 2, I announced a $1.6 million grant for the Harlingen Economic Development Corporation from the U.S. Economic Development Administration. This grant will help support the construction of the long-awaited Harlingen Industrial Park, bringing economic development and job growth to our region. More regional investments mean a better local economy, higher paying jobs, and a better place to live. Proud to work with the City of Harlingen to continue their efforts to grow and invest in the residents of Harlingen. 

On Friday, August 4, I announced $2,534,493 in rural transit grants for five entities in the 34th District of Texas. 

This funding will help update and connect rural communities, enhance accessibility, and support new transit technologies. For decades are rural roads have been left by the wayside to fall into disrepair. I’m proud that targeted investments to create better access to our smaller communities, is finally coming to South Texas. 

• City of Rio Hondo: $1,440,400 
• Kleberg County Human Services: $331,712 
• Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council: $737,612 
• Rural Economic Assistance League, Inc.: $676,217 
• South Padre Island City: $633,552 

On Monday, August 7, I announced a grant of $2,114,040 for the Neighbors in Need of Services Inc. (NINOS) Head Start Program in Rio Hondo, Texas. This funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families to support early childhood development and learning capabilities. 
When we focus on our kids, especially from low-income households, we create a foundation for success and enhance their ability to learn on the same level as their peers. 

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