Austin News

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz and Sen. John Cornyn from Texas have introduced new legislation aimed at enhancing support for U.S. diplomats and officials in enforcing the 1944 Treaty on Utilization of Waters of the Colorado, Tijuana, and Rio Grande Rivers with Mexico. The legislation seeks to ensure that future water deliveries from Mexico are predictable and reliable.

According to Sen. Cruz, Mexico has consistently failed to fulfill its obligations under the treaty, leading to significant challenges for farmers in the Rio Grande Valley. Sen. Cruz stated, "Mexico has consistently failed to uphold its end of the bargain when it comes to supplying the U.S. with water."

Sen. Cornyn emphasized the urgency of federal action, particularly in light of impending harsh drought conditions in Texas. Brian Jones, a representative from the Texas Farm Bureau, expressed concerns about the impact of water scarcity on farms and businesses along the Texas-Mexico border. Jones highlighted the drastic measures being taken by farmers due to the lack of water, stating, "Lots and lots of people are doing the same thing around here."

The new legislation proposed by Sen. Cruz and Sen. Cornyn directs the secretary of State to provide necessary resources to support the International Boundary and Water Commission in making water deliveries from Mexico more reliable. The State Department is actively engaging with Mexico's government to address the water treaty issues. A State Department spokesperson revealed that efforts are underway to incentivize earlier delivery of water through a potential new agreement called the Rio Grande Minute.

The proposed resolution reflects ongoing efforts to address water rights issues between the U.S. and Mexico, with a focus on ensuring the timely delivery of water as stipulated in the 1944 treaty.