Congressional Report

Dear john,

Every day, I am helping law enforcement fight the war on drugs and human trafficking by securing our southern border. As a senior member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, I continue to secure more funding for border patrol and law enforcement—for more boots on the ground, equipment and technology—to keep you and your family safe.

As always, if you need help with a federal agency, please contact one of my offices:

Washington D.C.:(202) 225 1640
Laredo: (956) 725-0639
Mission: (956) 424-3942
San Antonio: (210) 271 2851
Rio Grande City: (956) 424-3942

Webb County Stonegarden

I announced that I secured over $4.3 million in federal funds for the Webb County Sheriff’s Office, the Laredo Police Department, the Webb County Constables, and law enforcement agencies to support border security efforts. This funding is part of the Department of Homeland Security’s Operation Stonegarden Grant Program, which helps law enforcement agencies better handle border security operations and enhance safety in surrounding communities. This money will be used to increase overtime and benefits for officers and dispatchers from law enforcement agencies in Webb County, and helps to maintain equipment necessary to keep the 277,000 residents of Webb County communities safe.

Zapata Sheriff's Headquarters

I announced that I secured a $660,000 federal earmark for the Zapata County Sheriff’s Office to upgrade their facilities and equipment so they have more space to house officers and protect Zapata County. This funding will add needed rooms for interviews and evidence, expands record storage, replaces furniture, and adds critical technology for officers and support staff. With an upgraded and better furnished facility, the Zapata County Sheriff’s Office can dedicate more time and focus on securing Zapata’s border communities.

Father McNaboe Park Cleanup

My Laredo Outreach Coordinator, Melissa Peña, attended a back to school cleanup at Father McNaboe Park sponsored by Keep Laredo Beautiful. Volunteers helped clean up the park for it to be enjoyed by everyone in Laredo.

RGV Hispanic Chamber's Legislative Update Luncheon

My Rio Grande Valley Outreach Coordinator, Nicolas Cruz, attended the RGV Hispanic Chamber’s Legislative Update Luncheon. Elected officials from the Valley gave an update on what is happening during session and connected with local residents of the community. Events like these are important to show people what is happening in their government, and to show people that they are part of the democratic process.

Twirling Sweet Sensations

My San Antonio Outreach Coordinator, Arturo Olivarez, attended a ribbon cutting ceremony for Twirling Sweet Sensations’ new studio in Converse. Twirling Sweet Sensations is an award-winning baton twirling team and school that moves the sport of baton twirling forward in the San Antonio area.

Express America Insurance

Melissa attended Express America Insurance Agency’s ribbon cutting ceremony for their new location and presented a Congressional Certificate of Recognition. Express America Insurance Agency is an auto insurance agency that provides excellent service to Laredo.

Pacific Island Customs

Arturo a ribbon cutting ceremony for Pacific Island Customs in Converse. Pacific Island Customs serves local automotive enthusiasts in the San Antonio community with vehicle wrapping, signs, banners, sticker decals and more.

Santa Teresita Food Distribution

Melissa attended a food distribution today at the Santa Teresita Community Center. Food distributions are essential so our neighbors have the foods they need to not go hungry.

Texas Tribune's Inside the Interim with RGV Lawmakers

Nicolas attended the Texas Tribune’s Inside the Interim with RGV Lawmakers event. Local RGV lawmakers presented what they are doing to move South Texas towards more safety and prosperity.

Jesus Cervantes

Melissa presented a Congressional Certificate of Recognition to 10-year-old Jesus Cervantes of Laredo. Jesus has won over 200 medals and belts in martial arts like taekwondo and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, showing a degree of discipline and success that makes Laredo proud.

Grulla High School Future Farmers of America

Nicolas attended Grulla High School’s Future Farmers of America Parent Meeting. Future Farmers of America prepares students to be effective leaders of our country’s agriculture industry, so we can develop our resilience and ensure food security. As a recipient of the Star Greenhand Award when I was in FFA, I know the value of the program to one’s future and understanding of our country’s agriculture sector.