It is an honor to represent our district in Congress. My team and I are always here to help. Please feel free to contact my office at any time with any questions or concerns you may have. THE HAPPENINGS IN CONGRESS Introduced Legislation to Fight Illicit Fentanyl Fentanyl has become the leading cause of death for Americans between the ages of 18 and 45. In fiscal year 2022, U.S. Customs and Border Protection seized 12,900 pounds of this dangerous drug - an amount capable of killing over 2.9 billion people. We must stop relying on "band-aid" solutions and instead pro-actively tackle the problem at its root. That’s why I am proud to work alongside Congressman Brad Wenstrup to introduce the Stop Our Scourge Act of 2022. This legislation designates illicit fentanyl entering the United States from foreign countries as a weapon of mass destruction, and further ensures that we have all the facts and tools we need to combat this lethal drug that is plaguing our nation. While the Biden Administration has failed to take action, I remain committed to working with my colleagues to put an end to this deadly crisis. Demanded Transparency from Social Media Companies In the aftermath of the tragedy in Uvalde, it came to light that the Robb Elementary shooter had a disturbing online presence where he detailed his violent inclination to harm others. This activity should not have gone unnoticed. That's why I joined my colleagues in demanding accountability from social media companies to identify the warning signs of dangerous online behavior. Large online platforms have the unique ability to work with law enforcement and prevent these tragedies before they occur. Click here to read the full letter. SPENDING TIME IN TX-23 Briefing With El Paso Border Patrol Law enforcement officers along the border are working twice as hard to contain record levels of illegal immigration. This week, I met with Border Patrol in the El Paso Sector to discuss how they have managed the recent uptick in migrant encounters and the dangerous challenges it poses to the region. The El Paso Sector is averaging 2,000 encounters a day, compared to less than 1,000 just a few weeks ago. Visited with Fire Fighters in El Paso This week I stopped by Fire Station 30 in Northeast El Paso to discuss how I can best support the needs of first responders through my work in Congress. Like many other industries across America, our firefighters have been affected by workforce and supply chain shortages. I will continue to work hard to identify resources that can supplement their mission to keep our communities safe. Led a Roundtable Discussion at the El Paso Chamber This week, I participated in a productive roundtable with industry leaders at the El Paso Chamber to discuss the challenges and opportunities they face along the border region. From healthcare to home building to education, we touched on various solutions to improve our regional economy. I am looking forward to continuing our work together to support the El Paso community. Discussed Water Infrastructure Improvements for El Paso Colonias Along the border, many communities do not have access to running water. I met with the Lower Valley Water District to discuss ways we can partner to provide critical services to underserved colonias outside of El Paso. This year I was proud to secure $2.5 million in funding to deliver first time water services to more than 1,000 people living in these areas. Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in TX-23 During Hispanic Heritage Month, we celebrate the accomplishments and successful careers of Hispanic Americans across many fields. This week we have recognized Bryan Hernandez (Superintendent of Grandfalls Royalty ISD), Estevan Marquez (Marfa Police Chief), Robert Losoya (Texas Ranger), The Owners of the Mandujano Brothers Farm, Deborah A Zulonga (CEO of United Way El Paso), and David Garcia (El Paso County Veteran of the Year). Stay tuned on my social media pages as we continue to recognize those who have made significant contributions to their field! My team and I are always available to assist you. Please feel free to contact my office at any time. Washington, D.C. 1009 Longworth House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 202-225-4511 Del Rio 712 East Gibbs Street, Suite 101 Del Rio, TX 78840 830-308-6200 Fort Stockton 103 West Callaghan Street Fort Stockton, TX 79735 432-299-6200 San Antonio 6333 De Zavala Road, Suite A216 San Antonio, TX 78248 210-806-9920 Socorro 124 Horizon Boulevard Socorro, TX 79927 915-990-1500 Uvalde 2401 Garner Field Road, Building Q Uvalde, TX 78801 830-333-7410 Visit our Website Rep. Gonzales | 1009 Longworth House Office Building, Washington , DC 20515 Unsubscribe [email protected] Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by [email protected]