A bipartisan bill unveiled on Dec. 17 by U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX) would modernize infrastructure at U.S. land ports of entry (LPOEs) to enhance border security, improve the efficiency of lawful trade and travel, and support their rural border communities.
“Land ports of entry along the border are critical to our national economy,” Rep. Gonzales said. “However, to truly capture the value of cross-border trade, we must ensure our international bridges are modernized and properly maintained.”
The congressman sponsored the Strong Borders, Strong Communities Act, H.R. 6791, alongside lead original cosponsor U.S. Rep. Julie Johnson (D-TX), to create the first dedicated funding stream for the construction and modernization of infrastructure at LPOEs.
“This new legislation… repurposes federal funding to make targeted and meaningful investments for unique local infrastructure needs along the border,” said Rep. Gonzales. “I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House and Senate to move this bill forward and keep border communities thriving.”
If enacted, H.R. 6791 would allow allocated funds to be used for a variety of projects, including roads, bridges, wastewater treatment, and other related community infrastructure enhancements, according to a bill summary provided by the lawmakers.
“The Strong Ports, Strong Communities Act delivers targeted, bipartisan investment to modernize our land ports of entry, reduce congestion, and strengthen the local infrastructure families and businesses rely on every day,” Rep. Johnson said. “This is exactly the kind of practical work Texans expect from both parties in Congress.”
The legislation, which is endorsed by the Border Trade Alliance and the Fresh Produce Association, is companion legislation to the same-named measure introduced by U.S. Sens. John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ).