Houston Daily

Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz has formally requested that the U.S. Trade Representative, Jamieson Greer, consider incorporating the 1944 Water Treaty into the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). This proposal aims to enhance enforcement measures ensuring Mexico fulfills its annual water delivery commitments.

In her letter to Ambassador Greer, De La Cruz emphasizes the ongoing challenges faced by South Texas farmers due to inconsistent water deliveries from Mexico under the 1944 Water Treaty. She states, "For decades, South Texas agricultural producers have faced significant challenges due to Mexico's inconsistent, and often insufficient, water deliveries under the 1944 Water Treaty."

De La Cruz suggests that integrating the treaty into USMCA could improve enforcement and predictability. She believes it would provide a robust framework for addressing disputes and holding Mexico accountable through USMCA’s dispute resolution mechanisms.

She further outlines specific requests for action: establishing enforceable water delivery schedules within USMCA, developing a monitoring system for tracking water deliveries, utilizing dispute settlement procedures for non-compliance issues, and exploring economic sanctions or trade-related measures in cases of persistent non-compliance.

"The inclusion of the 1944 Water Treaty in USMCA is not simply a matter of agricultural productivity; it is a matter of economic stability," she writes. De La Cruz stresses that this integration is crucial for ensuring reliable water supplies to South Texas farmers and supporting regional security.

The Congresswoman concludes her letter expressing her willingness to collaborate with Greer on this issue: "I appreciate your attention to this vital issue and look forward to working with you to achieve a favorable outcome for South Texas."