Texas – Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller and Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz held a joint press conference in Mission, Texas, to announce the release of $280 million in drought relief funding through the 1944 Water Treaty Agricultural Assistance Program. The program aims to support farmers and ranchers in the Rio Grande River Valley affected by Mexico’s continued failure to deliver water as required by the 1944 Water Treaty.
Commissioner Miller described the funding as a “lifeline” for agricultural producers in the region. He expressed pride in partnering with Congresswoman De La Cruz to help local producers stay in business, pay their bills, and continue supplying food to the public. Miller praised the efforts of De La Cruz, her staff, and the Texas Department of Agriculture for securing and delivering the much-needed aid.
The $280 million grant comes from an agreement between the Texas Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The funding was authorized through legislation introduced by Congresswoman De La Cruz in the American Relief Act, which enabled emergency aid for South Texas producers suffering financial losses due to Mexico’s failure to meet its water delivery obligations under the treaty.
This assistance will provide crucial support to farmers and ranchers struggling with the ongoing drought and water shortages along the Rio Grande, helping to stabilize the region’s agricultural economy.
