Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Homeland Security Appropriations bill that authorizes funds for the programs that fall under the jurisdiction of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).  Rep. Cuellar worked with his colleagues to make sure that vital provisions were included in the bill that provide for local input into plans for border fence and infrastructure… Read more »

Today, Rep. Henry Cuellar joined his colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives in passing the Homeland Security Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2008.  The bill appropriates $37.4 billion and includes important provisions dealing with border security procedures and projects. “I was proud to vote for this bill today.  I applaud my colleagues and Chairman David Price on… Read more »

Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar continued the dialogue on the controversial border fence with Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Ralph Basham.   Commissioner Basham reiterated commitments made by the leadership of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to Congressman Cuellar that final decisions on fence construction would be… Read more »

Today, Rep. Henry Cuellar announced that a $4 million federal grant has been awarded for the renovation of the facilities at Falcon Dam.  Located near the dividing line between Starr and Zapata Counties, the Falcon Dam facilities will be renovated internally and externally. “The renovation of facilities at our international borders is vital to increasing the efficiency and security… Read more »

Late last evening, a tornado hit South Texas.  Congressman Cuellar expressed his sympathy for the residents affected by the natural disaster and is deeply saddened by the news that six people have died and that many have lost their homes. “My condolences go out to the families and friends of the victims of last night’s tornado.  I know entire communities have been impacted and… Read more »

Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar announced the awarding of a $5,500 grant to benefit the Zapata County Sheriff’s Department.  Funded by the Department of Homeland Security’s Commercial Equipment Direct Assistance Program (CEDAP), the money will be used to purchase an Optim Freedomview Fiber Optic Scope Kit. The Optim Freedomview Fiber Optic Scope Kit will be used for search and… Read more »

Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar announced the awarding of a $13,834 grant to benefit Mission’s Police Department.  Funded by the Department of Homeland Security’s Commercial Equipment Direct Assistance Program (CEDAP), the money will be used to purchase Stedi-Eye Gyro Stabilized Binoculars. Stedi-Eye Binoculars will enhance the Police Department’s patrol capabilities in the… Read more »

Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar announced the awarding of two grants to benefit the Webb County Sheriff Department and the El Cenizo Police Department.  Funded by the Department of Homeland Security’s Commercial Equipment Direct Assistance Program (CEDAP), the money will be used to purchase new equipment for the two agencies. The first grant of $33,100 will be used to purchase new… Read more »

Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar announced the awarding of a $10,553 grant to benefit Jourdanton’s Police Department.  Funded by the Department of Homeland Security’s Commercial Equipment Direct Assistance Program (CEDAP), the money will be used to purchase a new thermal imager. “As a member of the Homeland Security Committee and Chairman of the Subcommittee on Emergency… Read more »

Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar announced several key additions to legislation authorizing the Department of Homeland Security for Fiscal Year 2008.  Congressman Cuellar’s additions will ensure the creation of a Border Communities Liaison Officer in the Department of Homeland Security’s Policy Office, mandate an assessment to significantly reduce wait times at the border and give… Read more »