Dear Friends,

Yesterday marked one year since Hamas terrorists launched barbaric attacks on Israel, resulting in the loss of innocent lives and the ongoing captivity of 101 hostages. As we remember this dark day, we stand unwaveringly with our ally and call on the global community to condemn the violence and those who support it. There is no mission more important than ending this war, bringing all hostages home, and securing peace in the region.  

Warm regards, 

Congressman Vicente Gonzalez

Online Passport Renewal Now Available 24/7

Passport renewals just got easier! The U.S. Department of State’s new and secure Online Passport Renewal (OPR) for U.S. citizens is now available. 

   
Passport processing times have also been reduced! Routine service will now be 4-6 weeks, down from the prior service commitment of 6-8 weeks, for both paper and online applications.  

See if you qualify to renew with OPR at http://travel.state.gov/renewonline. 

Passage of Continuing Resolution

 At the end of September, I voted in favor of a Continuing Resolution to keep the federal government funded until December 20, 2024.  

While this stopgap measure will keep South Texans from feeling the adverse impacts of a federal government shutdown, I urge House Republicans — who currently control the House — to govern responsibly and negotiate in good faith. We cannot continue to fund our government with these short-term stopgap solutions. We must address the critical shortfall in veterans’ health care funding and work to meet the needs of our federal agencies handling disaster relief. We must work in a bipartisan fashion and put the interests of our constituents first, not party politics. 

Service Academy Day

Last week, I had the honor of hosting our Service Academy Day, where I met some of the brightest young leaders from South Texas. It was inspiring to see so many students eager to serve our nation and pursue a future in leadership at one of our nation’s prestigious U.S. service academies. I’m proud to support our youth as they take the next steps in their journey.   

Meeting Local Farmers and Supporting South Texas Agriculture

I had the privilege of meeting with South Texas farmers to discuss the critical issues facing our agricultural community. With ongoing drought conditions and the growing need for more sustainable water resources, ensuring our farmers have the support they need was at the forefront of our conversation. We touched on key legislation aimed at boosting farm productivity and sustainability. Our farmers are the backbone of our local economy, and I remain committed to working alongside them to address their concerns. 

Celebrating Saint Joseph Academy’s Division II State Soccer Champions

Congratulations to Brownsville’s Saint Joseph Academy Varsity Soccer team on their remarkable victory at the 2024 Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS) Division II State Soccer Championship!  

Region One Highlight over $33 Million in Funding During Gear Up Grant Kickoff

Team Gonzalez was proud to attend the Region One GEAR UP Grant Kickoff last week to celebrate an investment of over $33 million into our students’ futures over the next seven years. The U.S. Department of Education’s funding will continue to transform the lives in Region One schools and ensure our students have the necessary tools and resources to prepare them for college and beyond. 

Presented Over $30 Million in Title I Funding to Brownsville ISD

Last week I had the privilege of presenting Brownsville Independent School District (BISD) with over $30 million in Title I funding. These funds are vital in supporting our underserved students and ensuring that Brownsville ISD has the resources it needs to provide a high-quality education for all. I remain committed to advocating for our South Texas schools and making sure they have the tools necessary to ensure our students succeed. 
  

 UTRGV Secures $18.4 Million Grant from the National Institutes of Health

I was proud to join UTRGV to celebrate an $18.4 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to establish the Rio Grande Valley Cancer Disparity Research Center. Grants like this represent a significant step in addressing the cancer health disparities in our region, which has some of the highest cancer rates and uninsured population in the country.  

This investment will pave the way for research that reflects the unique challenges of South Texas while also contributing to national efforts that help combat cancer. 

I’m honored to help support this groundbreaking initiative for UTRGV and look forward to the impact they will have for South Texas. 

Announced $5.4 Million in Title I Funding for Edcouch-Elsa ISD

Last week, I also had the honor of presenting over $5.4 million in Title I funding to Edcouch-Elsa Independent School District (EEISD). This vital funding ensures our students receive the highest quality education regardless of background. As a lifelong advocate for education, I understand how crucial these resources are in supporting early childhood learning and fostering student achievement. With this funding, Edcouch-Elsa ISD can continue to expand programs, enhance curriculums, and uplift our community. 

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 Acquire Expedited Passport

Please do not reply to this email as this inbox is not monitored. Instead, please visit Gonzalez.House.Gov or call us at (956) 682-5545 or (202) 225-2531.