Mónica De La Cruz

Ms. De La Cruz

Ms. De La Cruz. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Border Patrol Agent Hector Moreno, Jr., for his 27 years of service. Born and raised in McAllen, Texas, Mr. Hector Moreno, Jr., pursued a career of selfless service to our community. He joined the Border Patrol in 1997 and, for nearly three decades, has set a high standard for his fellow agents by upholding their core values of service to our country, integrity, and vigilance. During his tenure, he successfully led specialized operations in the Rio Grande Valley to combat transnational crime and tackle illicit drug trafficking at our southern border. I had the opportunity to join Mr. Moreno in south Texas to participate in a ride-along and hear from Border Patrol agents and experience their daily work of protecting our communities. Last summer, Mr. Moreno retired as a division chief for the Rio Grande Valley Sector. We are grateful for his honorable service and exemplary leadership to fellow agents and our community. In his retirement, he continues to serve others as a criminal justice teacher at Nikki Rowe High School in McAllen, Texas, and leads the Student Criminal Justice Club. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Moreno for his selfless service. I congratulate him on his well-deserved retirement. Recognizing Texas Independence Day and Lieutenant Colonel William B. Travis

Ms. De La Cruz. Mr. Speaker, earlier this month, we celebrated Texas Independence Day and the brave efforts of Texas revolutionaries and Tejanos who fought to secure their independence from Mexico. I rise today to recognize the heroes of the Texas Revolution and share the brave words of Lieutenant Colonel William B. Travis to rally the Texans' army at the Alamo nearly 200 years ago: ``Bejar, February 24, 1836. ``To the people of Texas and all Americans in the world. ``Fellow citizens and compatriots: ``I am besieged by a thousand or more of the Mexicans under Santa Anna. I have sustained a continual bombardment and cannonade for 24 hours and have not lost a man. ``The enemy has demanded a surrender at discretion, otherwise, the garrison are to be put to the sword, if the fort is taken. I have answered the demand with a cannon shot, and our flag still waves proudly from the walls. I shall never surrender or retreat. ``Then, I call on you in the name of liberty, of patriotism, and everything dear to the American character to come to our aid with all dispatch. The enemy is receiving reinforcements daily and will no doubt increase to 3,000 or 4,000 in 4 or 5 days. ``If this call is neglected, I am determined to sustain myself as long as possible and die like a soldier who never forgets what is due to his own honor and that of his country. ``Victory or death. ``William Barret Travis, Lieutenant Colonel Commandant. ``P.S., the Lord is on our side. When the enemy appeared in sight, we had not three bushels of corn. We have since found in deserted houses 80 or 90 bushels and got into the walls 20 or 30 head of beeves. ``Travis.'' Though we know Texans lost this battle, Lieutenant Travis' words were heard for miles. ``Remember the Alamo'' became a battle cry, and revolutionaries joined the Texan forces to win the war and secure freedom for Texas. I rise today to proudly honor our great State and the brave men and women who built Texas on values of family, faith, and freedom.

Ms. De La CRUZ

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Amigo Power Equipment in Edinburg, Texas, for 50 years of service to our community. Founded in 1974 by Janice and Kent Johnson, Amigo Power Equipment sold tractors and combines to farmers and ranchers throughout south Texas. As the Rio Grande Valley grew, so did their business. The Johnsons passed down their business to their youngest son, Jeff, and over the years, it has become the premier tractor and power sports dealership in the valley. When visiting their store, you will find knowledgeable staff with years of experience and exceptional customer service. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the Johnsons and the entire staff on this incredible milestone, and I thank them for their dedication to the Rio Grande Valley community. Positive Impacts of Social Security Legislation

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to share the positive impacts that the Social Security Fairness Act has already made for south Texans. Before this bill, millions of public servants like teachers, police officers, and firefighters were unfairly punished by reduced Social Security benefits. After being signed into law last month, this legislation finally eliminated the provisions that reduced Social Security benefits for public servants. I have heard back from teachers in south Texas who are incredibly thankful to have the legislation finally signed into law. I am proud to have cosponsored this bill in the House, advocated for its passage, and played an important role in expanding access to benefits for those who have gone above and beyond to serve our communities. Paying Tribute to the Honorable Rose Guerra Reyna

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor State District Judge Rose Guerra Reyna for her service to Hidalgo County. Earlier this month, Judge Reyna announced that, after 28 years, she will be retiring from her role. For over two decades, she has upheld the rule of law with fairness and justice in Hidalgo County. She has presided over thousands of cases, worked to improve the judicial process, and mentored many young attorneys throughout her tenure. Though she will be missed, her legacy will live on in the courtroom. Her commitment to justice in south Texas is unwavering, and we are so fortunate to have public servants like Judge Reyna in south Texas. We wish her the best as she carries out her term and begins her well- deserved retirement. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the judge. 1944 Water Treaty

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to address an issue that is critical to my community in south Texas, Mexico's refusal to fulfill its water obligation. Their refusal to comply with the agreements of the 1944 Water Treaty has caused mass devastation with our farmers and ranchers in south Texas. Last Congress, we had our one sugar mill in Texas close. That was 500 jobs that were lost and millions of dollars of economic impact in south Texas. Food security is national security, and we have lost our sugar mill, and we are on the verge of losing our citrus industry. We ask that the Mexican Government repay us the water that they owe us which is now over 1 million acre-feet of water. It is simply unacceptable that the Mexican Government has not given us the water that they owe us. This not only affects the people of south Texas, but it affects the entire Nation. Again, food security is national security, and we urge the Mexican Government to pay us our water immediately.

Ms. De La CRUZ

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 35, the Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act, which I am proud to have co-led with Congressman Ciscomani. Agent Raul Gonzalez was stationed in my community of McAllen, Texas, and was dedicated to protecting the Rio Grande Valley and, quite frankly, all of the Nation. In 2022, he tragically lost his life while pursuing a car full of illegal immigrants. By passing this legislation, we can take critical steps to protect the safety of law enforcement officers and prevent this tragedy from ever happening again. This bill will make failing to yield to Border Patrol agents or law enforcement a Federal crime. Further, if anyone is killed during the apprehension, it could result in life in prison. Criminals will think twice before engaging in dangerous and reckless behavior like a high-speed chase from Border Patrol agents. Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities. I am committed to protecting those who protect us, and I urge my colleagues to support this bill in honor of the life and service of a Texas hero, Agent Raul Gonzalez.

Ms. De La CRUZ

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my bill, H.R. 224, the Disabled Veterans Housing Support Act. Veterans, particularly disabled veterans, have made extraordinary sacrifices for our Nation, and it is simply unacceptable that those who selflessly defended our freedoms are met with bureaucratic red tape when they return home. Government overregulation should never stand in the way of veterans' ability to receive the help they need. That is what this legislation will fix. Due to inconsistencies in the way income eligibility is determined for Community Development Block Grant assistance, a veteran could be disqualified simply because their service-connected disability compensation is counted as income in one case but excluded in another. This simply doesn't make sense. This is the result of HUD currently allowing multiple different definitions of income for CDBG assistance, some of which count service- connected disability received from the VA as income while one does not. To put it more simply, the same veteran who may have been disqualified for assistance could very well be eligible if the grantee would only have used the proper definition of income. This legislation will create a standard and ensure VA service- connected disability income is always excluded from income calculations when determining eligibility for CDBG assistance. By passing this bipartisan legislation, we are correcting an issue that HUD has failed to address. Further, we will require a report from the GAO to identify any additional inconsistencies in the treatment of service-connected disability income within housing programs. Last Congress, I was proud to see this legislation garner bipartisan support in the Financial Services Committee and pass out of this House as recently as this past December. We will continue to build on this progress to ensure federally funded programs best serve our veterans and do not penalize them for the benefits that they have earned. Mr. Speaker, I thank the bipartisan cosponsors for this legislation, including Congressman Brad Sherman, and I urge my colleagues to join me and vote in favor of H.R. 224.

Ms. De La CRUZ

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for yielding. I rise in support of H.R. 965, the bipartisan Housing Unhoused Disabled Veterans Act, which I am proud to co-lead. Our veterans, particularly disabled veterans, have sacrificed immensely for our Nation. Unfortunately, when they return home, they are met with unnecessary bureaucracy and government overregulation. Though we can never repay them for their sacrifice, we can show gratitude by ensuring that bureaucratic obstacles do not stand in the way of veterans receiving the support they need. H.R. 965 will make certain that disability benefits received by a veteran are not counted against a veteran seeking housing assistance under the HUD-VASH program. These programs are intended to help veterans, so let us ensure that we do all we can to ensure they achieve that mission by enacting commonsense measures. I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan solution to ensure those that sacrificed so much for this great country are not penalized for benefits they have earned through their selfless service.

Ms. De La CRUZ

Ms. De La CRUZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate an extraordinary milestone for an extraordinary man, Live Oak County Sheriff Larry Busby. Sworn in on New Year's Day for his 12th consecutive term, Sheriff Busby has cemented his place in history as Texas' longest serving sheriff. With a remarkable 50 years in law enforcement, 44 of those years as sheriff of Live Oak County, he exemplifies dedication, resilience, and leadership. Sheriff Busby's philosophy of treating everyone with respect has earned him not just the trust of his community but also their enduring support. His history, rooted in cowboy values of hard work and responsibility, inspires all of us. Whether as a teacher, cowboy, or law enforcement officer, he has always served with honor and humility. I congratulate Sheriff Busby on this historic achievement, and I thank him for his unwavering commitment to Live Oak County. Here is to the legacy he continues to build and the many lives he has touched along the way. Honoring Lieutenant Oscar Trevino

Ms. De La CRUZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Lieutenant Oscar Trevino of the Edinburg Police Department in Texas. Lieutenant Trevino retired after an extraordinary 37 years of service. On January 10, Lieutenant Trevino marked the conclusion of his remarkable career with an emotional last call over the radio, a powerful moment that symbolized his unwavering dedication to protecting and serving his community. Lieutenant Trevino's legacy is one of courage, leadership, and selfless commitment. He has made an indelible impact on Edinburg, and his years of service will not be forgotten. As he begins his well-deserved retirement, we express our deepest gratitude and wish him all the best in his upcoming retirement and new chapter of life. We thank Lieutenant Trevino for his service and sacrifice. Celebrating University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's Chess Team

Ms. De La CRUZ. Madam Speaker, I rise to celebrate the historic achievement of the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley chess team, who claimed their first outright victory at the Pan American Intercollegiate Chess Championship earlier this month. Out of 91 teams, UTRGV's A team delivered a flawless performance, winning all six matches, a feat unmatched in the tournament. This victory exemplifies talent, teamwork, and the ``vaquero,'' ``cowboy,'' spirit. This win secures UTRGV's spot in the prestigious President's Cup, where they will compete for their fourth national collegiate chess championship. Their success is a testament to the extraordinary caliber of UTRGV students. I congratulate the team, their coach, and the entire UTRGV community. We are all so proud of them and look forward to cheering them on in April. Honoring Dr. Milton Louis Gonzalez

Ms. De La CRUZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor my guest for this year's National Prayer Breakfast, Dr. Milton Gonzalez from McAllen, Texas. For over 25 years, Dr. Milton Louis Gonzalez has taught and inspired south Texans. He has dedicated his life to ensuring that the next generation is able to reach their potential and live a life full of faith. Not only has his gift for speaking touched many, many lives, but his insightful speeches have empowered people all across the United States and the world. Outside of his incredible work, Dr. Gonzalez is a great man of faith, devoted husband, proud father of two, and grandfather. I am honored to recognize Dr. Gonzalez. It was my pleasure to have him join me in praying for our Nation and our leaders at the National Prayer Breakfast.

Ms. De La CRUZ

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Guadalupe County Commissioner Greg Seidenberger on his well-deserved retirement after a lifetime of extraordinary service to our country and community. Greg began his career with 20 years in the United States Air Force, serving as a command pilot during the Vietnam war and leading the squadron operating out of Seguin Auxiliary. He then served as a pilot for American Airlines for 18 years. For the past 12 years, Greg has dedicated himself to Guadalupe County as commissioner for precinct 1, transforming the county and ensuring the foundation for a brighter future. Mr. Speaker, I wish Commissioner Seidenberger a joyful retirement.

Ms. De La CRUZ

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Guadalupe County Commissioner Greg Seidenberger on his well-deserved retirement after a lifetime of extraordinary service to both our country and our community. Greg began his career with 20 years in the United States Air Force, serving as a command pilot during the Vietnam war and leading the squadron operating out of the Seguin Auxiliary Airfield. He then served as a pilot for American Airlines for 18 years. For the past 12 years, Greg has dedicated himself to Guadalupe County as the commissioner for Precinct 1, transforming the county and ensuring the foundation for a bright future. I wish Commissioner Greg Seidenberger a joyful retirement. Again, I congratulate him.

Ms. De La CRUZ

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dale Murden, a dedicated leader in south Texas agriculture, for winning the 2024 Texas Farm Bureau Pioneer Award. As president of the Texas Citrus Mutual, Dale is a steadfast advocate for the State of Texas' citrus industry, championing legislative priorities such as the 1944 water treaty issue, pest and disease management, and leading innovation that strengthens our agricultural community. Dale's work supports thousands of farmers and helps preserve the rich farming heritage of south Texas. On behalf of the 15th Congressional District of Texas, I congratulate Dale on this well-deserved recognition, and I thank him for his service to our farmers and to the great State of Texas.

Ms. De La CRUZ

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a truly remarkable woman from Alamo, Texas, Clemencia Esteviz, who recently celebrated her 100th birthday on November 22. From her early days at working in the fields to her dedicated service to the Diocese of Brownsville, Clemencia has lived a life filled with resilience, hard work, and unwavering devotion to her family and to others. Her family treasures the warmth that she brings to every Christmas gathering, where her tamale-making traditions have created many cherished memories for generations. She has extended her nurturing spirit beyond her immediate family, raising her niece's child as her own. I wish Clemencia a happy birthday and congratulate her on this incredible milestone. Emergency Aid

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to sound the alarm for our farmers in south Texas and American food security. South Texas farmers are facing a crisis due to the Mexican Government's failure to honor its water obligations under the 1944 water treaty. This neglect has left over 960,000 acre-feet of water undelivered, devastating our agricultural sector. The Rio Grande Valley Sugar Growers, after 50 years, has shut down, taking 500 American jobs with it. Our citrus and our vegetable farmers have seen millions in losses, and row crop yields are down 40 percent. Without immediate action, more livelihoods will be destroyed. Keep in mind, Mr. Speaker, food security is national security. That is why I have introduced H.R. 10113, the South Texas Agriculture Emergency Assistance Act. This bill provides $280 million in emergency aid to our farmers. Earlier in 2024, water was selling for around $300 per acre-foot. At that amount, the value of the water deficit is about $280 million, the amount we are requesting in emergency aid. This does not come close to equaling the losses to producers, but it is a starting point for funds needed to aid the region. Mr. Speaker, I urge leadership to include this legislation in any emergency aid bill that comes to the floor. Let's stand with our farmers and ensure that they have the resources to recover and thrive, which ultimately means American farmers feed American citizens and that we do not depend on foreign actors for our food.

Ms. De La CRUZ

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 7480) to amend section 102(a)(20) of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to require the exclusion of service- connected disability compensation when determining whether a person is a person of low and moderate income, a person of low income, or a person of moderate income, and for other purposes, as amended.

Ms. De La CRUZ

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 6751) to require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint commemorative coins in recognition of the life and legacy of Roberto Clemente.

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as she may consume to the gentlewoman from Puerto Rico (Mrs. Gonzalez-Colon).

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on this bill.

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 6751, a bill to mint a commemorative coin in recognition of the exemplary life and legacy of Roberto Clemente. Roberto Clemente has inspired countless Americans through his impressive athletic achievements and unyielding generosity. Born on August 18, 1934, in Carolina, Puerto Rico, Roberto Clemente was the youngest of seven children. From an early age, he excelled athletically, especially at baseball. After a brief stint in the minors, Clemente joined the Pittsburgh Pirates for the 1955 season. He would go on to become arguably the greatest Pirate to ever wear the jersey, a 15-time all-star, two-time World Series champion, and the 1966 National League MVP winner. To underscore just how much Clemente meant to the sport of baseball, he would become the second player in history to have the 5-year waiting period waived before being inducted into the Hall of Fame through a special ballot in 1973. Roberto Clemente was much more than one of the greatest baseball players of all time. He was a fierce advocate for racial equality. Clemente insisted the Pirates provide African-American and Latino players with their own bus so they could travel to restaurants. He was also widely known for his philanthropic efforts. He spent much of his time away from the ballpark collecting donations for Latin American countries, visiting children in hospitals, and putting on baseball clinics for kids from Pittsburgh to Puerto Rico. Clemente's reputation for generosity continued until his tragic death in 1972 while delivering aid to Nicaragua following a devastating earthquake. His untimely passing at the age of 38 was honored by 3 days of official national mourning in his native Puerto Rico, which brought an abrupt stop to Presidential inauguration celebrations. When celebrations resumed, Puerto Rico's Secretary of State Fernando Chardon gave a befitting tribute: ``We have with us today the spirit of a man, Roberto Clemente, who helped teach independentistas, statehooders, and commonwealthers how to play good baseball and become better citizens.'' H.R. 6751 will honor Roberto Clemente for his outstanding achievements both on and off the baseball field. Mr. Speaker, I support this bill, and I urge my colleagues to support it, as well. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I have no further speakers. I am prepared to close if the gentlewoman is prepared to close. I reserve the balance of my time.