Issue Position: Agriculture

Issue Position

Texas Agriculture

As a member of the House Agriculture Committee and two of its subcommittees, I have taken a proactive stance on agricultural issues of critical importance to the rural community in the 28th District of Texas.

I know the concerns that ranchers and farmers have about their livestock and crop maintenance, which is why I was active in crafting the 2007 Farm Bill. I included language in the 2007 Farm Bill to boost cattle fever tick eradication, expand broadband telemedicine and distance learning programs, develop an alternative energy program at TAMIU, and enhance the colonias access to federal programs.

Recent Agriculture Efforts

In 2009, I helped secure over $9 million for fever tick research in Texas and millions in federal funds and grants to help expand solar energy power grids in the colonias.

This past summer, we experienced a severe drought across Texas and many farms were looking for relief. That's why I worked hard with the Texas Farm Service Agency to bring drought relief assistance to our Texas farms and ranches. In fact, the first two farms in the nation to receive this relief were located in the 28th District of Texas.

I also have worked to ensure the presence of the United States Department of Agriculture in Starr County by working to keep the Rural Development Office open and I worked hard to prevent further closures of FSA offices in Zapata and La Salle Counties. These offices maintain unique important relationships within our communities.

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