Congressman Gonzalez Statement on Federal Funding for Rio Grande Valley Farmers

BROWNSVILLE, TEXAS — Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34) released a statement following the $280 million grant agreement between the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) to support agricultural producers in the Rio Grande Valley amid water shortages. 

“I’m proud to see our agricultural producers are finally getting some relief after the prolonged droughts the Rio Grande Valley has been experiencing and failed water deliveries from Mexico,” said Congressman Gonzalez. “But let’s be clear: this funding comes from the December 2024 stop gap appropriations bill, which passed Congress thanks to Democratic votes and was signed into law by the previous administration. Our region’s agriculture producers continue to be on the brink of extinction. However, this band-aid won’t help for long. It’s past time Congress pass the Farm Bill and regular appropriations bills.”  

“On the other hand, I am appalled that the current administration and their congressional allies are not giving credit where credit is due. This issue is not a partisan issue and has long held bipartisan support.”  

“This is a shameful attempt to pull the wool over South Texans’ eyes.”  

Under the agreement, the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) will be responsible for the disbursal of funds to qualifying producers in Texas’ Lower Rio Grande River Valley Water District that experienced water delivery losses in calendar years 2023 and 2024. Eligible producers must have retained a certificate from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality Division authorizing the diversion of water in calendar years 2023 and/or water in calendar years 2023 and/or 2024. More information will be provided by the TDA.    

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