Dear Friends,

Our South Texas region is growing, and it is important that our economy keeps pace. As I travel the Rio Grande Valley and Coastal Bend to meet with our neighbors, it is clear that this Administration’s aggressive and indiscriminate approach to immigration enforcement is creating labor shortages and doing more harm than good for local industries and small businesses. South Texans work hard and deserve access to a workforce that strengthens our economic prosperity. 

As a Member of the powerful House Committee on Financial Services, I recently questioned U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary, Scott Turner, about ongoing housing and labor shortages. My message was simple: Immigrants are the backbone of the American economy and account for 40% of the construction workforce in Texas. However, an increase in targeted work site raids is hurting key industries and at times have stalled the construction of affordable housing and other development projects. 

The Administration could easily take action to reverse the labor shortage and ensure affordable housing for all Americans, but they refuse to. That is why I’m working on legislation that will empower small businesses to sponsor undocumented migrants who have been in the country for at least five years with no criminal record. 

Watch HERE

Sincerely, 

Congressman Vicente Gonzalez

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ICYMI: Supporting More Job Creation at the Port of Corpus Christi

This past week, I visited the Port of Corpus Christi, the third-largest oil port in the world and vital economic engine that powers communities far beyond the Coastal Bend. As a major hub for energy exports and trade, the Port plays a critical role in strengthening our economy and maintaining our nation’s energy leadership. Each year, billions of dollars move through its channels, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs and sustaining businesses across Texas and nationwide. 

Given its significance to our economic security and global competitiveness, I am committed to advocating for stronger federal support to invest in long-term water solutions that will protect numerous businesses and communities throughout the region! 
 

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