Dear Friends,

On this day, 23 years ago, our nation was forever changed. Today, we honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost on September 11, 2001, and the countless first responders, survivors, and everyday citizens who showed courage in the face of unspeakable tragedy.  

Warm regards, 

Congressman Vicente Gonzalez

Biden-⁠Harris Admin Lowers Mental Health Care Costs by Improving Access to Mental Health and Substance Use Care

The Biden-Harris Administration has announced a new, historic rule aimed at improving access to mental health and substance use care for 175 million Americans, including South Texans.

Read the full fact sheet here.

Signing Discharge Petition and Urging the Passage of H.R. 82, the Social Security Fairness Act to Protect Public Servants’ Retirement Benefits

This week, I joined my colleagues in Congress in signing a discharge petition that would bring H.R. 82, the Social Security Fairness Act, to a vote in the House. This important legislation would repeal the windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO), two provisions that unfairly reduce Social Security benefits for nearly 40 million retired public servants, including teachers, police officers, and firefighters.

Read my full statement here.

Addressing Credit Unions' Vital Role in Supporting South Texas

I was honored to speak with leaders from America’s Credit Unions. South Texans rely on community financial institutions, like credit unions, to help meet everyday financial needs. They provide invaluable services like affordable loans, economic literacy, and small business support for our entrepreneurs.  

Team Gonzalez at Fund for Veterans’ Assistance #GrantsAcrossTexas Check Event 

Team Gonzalez was thrilled to be a part of the Fund for Veterans’ Assistance #GrantsAcrossTexas event to support our veterans in TX-34! This event was the first stop of Grants Across Texas which will provide over $4.3 million in Fund for Veterans’ Assistance grants to 12 organizations in South Texas. This funding will be utilized to offer financial assistance, home modifications, transportation services, and employment support services to more than 3,400 veterans.

Team Gonzalez Participates at VetFest

Team Gonzalez was honored to attend Laguna Madre VetFest last week to speak with local veterans, active-duty military service members, and their families to discuss how our office can be of assistance. From fighting to secure VA benefits and healthcare to helping obtain military records, rest assured that I will continue to advocate for our veterans and ensure South Texas continues to be a place where we support our heroes.  

Announced Nearly $18 Million in Additional Federal Support to South Texas Communities Receiving Migrants

 I was proud to announce nearly $18 million in federal support for South Texas communities and entities that assist U.S. Customs and Border Protection in ensuring migrants are processed in an efficient and orderly way. This is in addition to $17.7 million awarded through the same program earlier this year. 
 
This additional funding will support the safe, orderly, and humane management of incoming migrants at our Southern border. Our communities should not be left alone to bear this logistical and financial burden that affects our entire nation.  

Read my full statement or view a full list of cities and entities receiving funding here. 

Announced Over $62 Million in GEAR UP Federal Funding for UTRGV and Region One ESC 

Last week, I was proud to announce over $62 million in federal funding for UTRGV and Region One Education Service Center from the U.S. Department of Education Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP). This funding will provide vital resources to help low-income students in South Texas achieve college readiness, ensuring a brighter future for our community.  

GEAR UP is one of the largest and most successful federal initiatives designed to increase high-school graduation rates, college enrollment, and student academic achievement among low-income students through support initiatives, resources, and scholarships. It is a critical component of the ongoing efforts by Region One ESC and UTRGV to improve educational outcomes in South Texas.  

By providing these resources, GEAR UP alleviates the financial pressure on South Texas families caused by high prices on everyday goods.  

I am a staunch supporter of GEAR UP and voted to pass the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024, which provided funding for this vital program. Investing in education means investing in the future of South Texas. 

Every day, my office and I ensure federal agencies are working with you and for you. Whether you are having issues with passports, USCIS, OPM, the VA, or the IRS, we are here to assist you.
 Please call (956) 682-5545 or submit a request online here to speak with someone on my team.

Team Gonzalez Helps Constituent Continue Life Saving Treatment for Cancer

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