Zapata, TX—Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced $333,000 in federal funds for Zapata County through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Operation Stonegarden Grant Program (OPSG).  The Stonegarden Program increases operational capabilities of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. The funds for Zapata County will support law enforcement through funding equipment, over-time pay and support interagency operations. In the FY20 Homeland Security Appropriations Bill, Congressman Cuellar secured $90 million nationwide for the program.

“Border security in Texas requires a variety of strategies and resources as well as coordination on the federal, state, and local level,” said Congressman Cuellar. “These funds will provide much-needed support for our law enforcement who are working tirelessly to keep our border communities safe. Since 2008, I have secured $8.5 million in OPSG funds for Zapata County.” 

“As the Vice Chair of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Appropriations, I will continue to ensure the men and women of law enforcement have the necessary funding to keep our South Texas communities safe and secure. I want to thank Zapata County Sheriff Alonso Lopez, Zapata County Judge Joe Rathmell, the Zapata County Commissioners Court, as well as all local, state, and federal officers for their commitment to helping to secure our southern border.”

The FY20 Operation Stonegarden (OPSG) program provides $90 million to enhance cooperation and coordination among local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies in a joint mission to secure the US border. This includes travel corridors in states bordering Mexico and Canada, as well as states and territories with international water borders. Texas received $33 million in FY20 Operation Stonegarden Grant Program, with Texas’ 28th District receiving $11.6 million, 35% of that share.  

To read the DHS’ Operation Stonegarden Grant Program Announcement, click here.

To read more about Operation Stonegarden, click here.