De La Cruz Secures $280M Drought Relief for Texas Farmers

Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (R) and Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller held a joint press conference in Mission to announce the delivery of $280 million in drought relief through the 1944 Water Treaty Agricultural Assistance Program.

The funding, secured through legislation introduced by De La Cruz and passed in the American Relief Act, will support farmers and ranchers in the Rio Grande Valley who have suffered major financial losses due to Mexico’s repeated failure to meet its water delivery obligations under the 1944 Water Treaty.

“The $280 million in funding is critical for Texas farmers and ranchers after suffering severe losses due to the Government of Mexico's refusal to comply with the 1944 Water Treaty,” said De La Cruz. “I am proud to have secured these funds and deliver solutions for the families, businesses, and communities that rely on Texas agriculture to thrive.”

Commissioner Miller praised the collaborative efforts behind the aid package, emphasizing the urgent need for relief in South Texas.

“This $280 million is a lifeline, and I am proud to partner with Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz to help agriculture producers along the Rio Grande stay in business, pay their bills, and keep putting food on our tables,” said Miller. “Congresswoman De La Cruz, her staff, and my agency have worked tirelessly to deliver this much-needed relief, and we are thrilled to announce that it’s finally here.”

Senator John Cornyn (R) also voiced support for the funding, highlighting his role in helping push the effort forward.

“The delivery of $280 million in drought assistance to South Texas will provide much-needed relief to farmers and ranchers in the Valley who have suffered from Mexico’s repeated refusal to provide the water it owes under the Water Treaty,” Cornyn said. “I was proud to work alongside Secretary Rollins and lead several of my colleagues from Texas in the mission to secure this funding.”

The 1944 Water Treaty Agricultural Assistance Program is managed by the Texas Department of Agriculture in coordination with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The $280 million grant is expected to be delivered this week and will directly aid producers impacted by Mexico's water delivery shortfalls.

The funding marks a major victory for agricultural communities along the Rio Grande and underscores the ongoing diplomatic and legislative challenges related to international water agreements.