Monica De La Cruz

De La Cruz, Texas Delegation Push for JBSA-Lackland to Host Space Force

WASHINGTON - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) and members of the Texas Congressional Delegation sent a letter to the Department of the Air Force urging the selection of Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland (JBSA-Lackland) as the permanent headquarters for the United States Space Force component to U.S. Cyber Command (SPACEFOR-CYBER). In the letter, the lawmakers outline why San Antonio is the premier choice to support the intersection of military and space interests. By leveraging existing infrastructure at JBSA-Lackland, the current home of the Sixteenth Air Force (Air Forces Cyber), the Air Force can ensure operations can begin immediately and efficiently. Read the full letter here or below. Dear Secretary Meink, As members of the Texas Congressional Delegation, we are writing in support of Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland (JBSA-Lackland) to be selected as the permanent home of the United States Space Force component to U.S. Cyber Command (SPACEFOR-CYBER). Under President Trump’s leadership, the United States Space Force has been at the intersection of the country’s military and space interests. To continue this important mission, JBSA-Lackland offers a uniquely powerful combination of operational infrastructure, geographic advantages, and a skilled workforce prepared to serve our country. The Sixteenth Air Force (Air Forces Cyber), the Air Force’s Information Warfare Numbered Air Force, is headquartered at JBSA–Lackland. Co-locating SPACEFOR-CYBER with the Sixteenth Air Force would immediately create deep operational synergy, shorten coordination timelines, and enhance unity across air, space, and cyber domains. Instead of building entirely new infrastructure, the Air Force would be leveraging an existing information warfare ecosystem. As an urban hub, San Antonio is well-positioned to support the critical infrastructure that SPACEFOR-CYBER would provide. The greater San Antonio area is a cyber hub, often referred to as “Military City, USA,” with a dense concentration of intelligence, private-sector cyber, and information technology organizations. The presence of NSA Texas and other intelligence activities provides for efficient information sharing and rapid operational coordination in support of both U.S. Cyber Command and U.S. Space Command missions. The region’s proximity to NASA and coastal installations at Boca Chica, Texas, provides a strategic and unique opportunity for collaboration across agencies. The city’s robust higher-education ecosystem, including universities such as the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) with strong programs in cybersecurity, computer science, engineering, and data science, provides a steady pipeline of highly skilled talent. The State of Texas, in collaboration with private enterprise, has consistently invested in cyber and defense-related initiatives, creating a business environment that attracts technology firms and defense contractors who can partner with SPACEFOR-CYBER on technological innovation and workforce development. We urge you to select Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland as the permanent home of SPACEFOR-CYBER. Thank you for your continued leadership in shaping the future of the Department of the Air Force and the United States Space Force.

De La Cruz Votes to Advance Farm Bill

Position: Congresswoman De La Cruz voted in support of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, stating that the bill reinforces American agricultural competitiveness, ensures farmer water access, and represents a long-term investment in Texas farming communities.

WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) voted in support of the passage of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, also known as the Farm Bill, on the House floor. The legislative package passed with bipartisan support. "Food security is national security. As a member of the House Agriculture Committee, I am proud to deliver a major victory for South Texas farmers and producers. By passing the Farm Bill, we are reinforcing American agriculture’s global dominance and ensuring our farmers have the reliable water access they deserve. This is not just a bill; it’s a long-term investment in the future of Texas farming and our communities." - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz Additionally, this year's Farm Bill included three provisions led by De La Cruz:

De La Cruz, Texas Delegation Urge Ambassadors Greer, Callahan to Include 1944 Water Treaty in USMCA

Position: The representatives urge the U.S. Trade Representative to incorporate strict enforcement mechanisms into USMCA renegotiations to ensure Mexico's compliance with the 1944 Water Treaty and increase consequences for non-compliance.

WASHINGTON - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15), along with a dozen members of the Texas Congressional Delegation, sent a letter to the United States Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Jamieson Greer and Chief Agricultural Negotiator Ambassador Julie Callahan, urging the Administration to use the upcoming USMCA renegotiations to ensure the Government of Mexico’s compliance with 1944 Water Treaty deliveries. By incorporating strict enforcement mechanisms into the trade agreement, the Mexican government will face stricter consequences if they fail to comply with the 1944 Water Treaty delivery obligations. The letter is co-signed by House Budget Committee Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19), House Small Business Committee Chairman Roger Williams (TX-25), Republican Study Committee Chairman August Pfluger (TX-11), Science, Space, and Technology Committee Chairman Brian Babin (TX-36), Congressman Michael Cloud (TX-27), Congressman Troy Nehls (TX-22), Congressman Lance Gooden (TX-05), Congressman Jake Ellzey (TX-06), Congressman Wesley Hunt (TX-38), Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14), Congressman Keith Self (TX-03), and Congressman Morgan Luttrell (TX-08). Read the full letter here or below. The effects of not including strong enforcement mechanisms for the 1944 U.S.-Mexico Water Treaty are clear. In 2023 alone, South Texas suffered an economic impact of almost $1 billion due to the water shortage.[2] This included the closure of the last sugar mill in Texas, resulting in the loss of 500 jobs and $100 million from the state’s economy. A long term solution to this perennial issue requires robust enforcement mechanisms. Specifically, we ask for the inclusion of the following into the USMCA:

De La Cruz Leads Bill to Improve Access to Medicare Services

WASHINGTON - Today, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) introduced the Improving Medicare Services Act alongside Rep. Lou Correa (CA-46) and Rep. Tom Barrett (MI-07). The bipartisan legislation will improve the 1-800-Medicare customer service line, helping seniors and beneficiaries navigate questions regarding billing, claims, medical records, and costs. "Many seniors across the nation rely on the 1-800-Medicare call line for assistance regarding their healthcare coverage, and we must ensure this service is meeting their needs. This study will highlight where improvements are needed and update data to make informed decisions on behalf of Medicare recipients. With this legislation, seniors will receive the high-quality service they need." - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz “It is important to provide seniors with the access to healthcare resources they’ve earned and deserve. They shouldn’t be forced to wait countless hours for answers to get the care they need. It’s unacceptable to hear that seniors in Orange County are enduring long wait times, receiving unhelpful responses, and experiencing poor service quality. I partnered with Rep. Monica De La Cruz and Rep. Rom Barrett in introducing this legislation to make sure all Medicare beneficiaries get timely, accurate, and professional help whenever they call 1-800-Medicare. Our seniors deserve no less.” - Congressman Lou Correa "There is nothing more frustrating than sitting on hold for hours to not get the help you need — especially when the help you need is simply accessing your Medicare. Congress needs to take every step necessary to ensure Medicare services and assistance are easily accessible for those who rely on it, and this bill is an important step to fulfilling that promise. I'm grateful to Congresswoman De La Cruz and Congressman Correa for their work on this legislation and I look forward to continuing to build a system that puts patients first." - Congressman Tom Barrett The Improving Medicare Services Act will require the Government Accountability Office to conduct a study evaluating the operations of the 1-800-Medicare call line, specifically focusing on wait times, customer satisfaction, and staff performance. This will be the first study conducted in over 15 years.

De La Cruz Hosts Roundtable with South Texas Immigration Lawyers

WASHINGTON - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) convened a roundtable discussion with South Texas immigration lawyers to hear their direct feedback on proposed immigration legislation. "Advancing common-sense legislative solutions for South Texas families is my top priority. I convened a group of seasoned South Texas immigration lawyers to hear their feedback and experience. Firsthand insight is essential to ensure the immigration policies we put forward reflect the reality and values of South Texas." - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz De La Cruz has introduced common-sense legislation to fix the broken immigration system and address workforce shortages. These legislative efforts include: the Fair Wages for Farm Workers Act, the Bracero Program 2.0 Act, and the Texas Dreamer Work Authorization Act. Additionally, De La Cruz has co-sponsored legislation, including the Essential Workers for Economic Advancement Act led by Congressman Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) and the Dignity Act led by Congresswoman Maria Salazar (FL-27).

De La Cruz Leads the Strengthen Taxpayer Rights Act

Position: Congresswoman De La Cruz supports legislation that codifies taxpayer protections to ensure the IRS appeals process is independent and fair, reducing bureaucratic burden on taxpayers challenging IRS decisions.

| Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz Javascript must be enabled for the correct page display Skip to Content facebook instagram twitter youtube Open search form Search Search form Submit Hit enter to search or ESC to close Menuicon Close Navigation Menuicon About Biography Committees Services Congressional Commendation Event Request Flag Request Help with a Federal Agency Kids Page Meeting Request Tour Requests Issues Key Issues Agriculture Budget Jobs and the Economy --> Voting Record Legislation Legislation Sponsored Legislation Co-sponsored Legislation --> Media Press Releases In the News --> Articles Photos Videos --> Contact Email Me E-Newsletter Sign Up Office Locations Interactive Map Opportunities for Texans America 250 Service Academy Nominations Congressional Art Competition Internships Grant Applications Washington DC Opportunities Open search form Search Site Submit facebook instagram twitter youtube Press Releases De La Cruz Leads the Strengthen Taxpayer Rights Act Share on Facebook Share on X Print this Page Share by Email Washington, March 27, 2026 WASHINGTON - In the height of tax season, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) introduced the Strengthen Taxpayer Rights Act alongside Congressman Zach Nunn (IA-03). The legislation codifies taxpayer protections to ensure the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) appeals process is always fully independent and not tilted against the taxpayer. "The Strengthen Taxpayer Rights Act gives American taxpayers the certainty that their appeals process will be fair and independent. Tax season can be complicated enough; Americans need less, not more, bureaucracy when appealing an IRS decision.” - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz “The IRS shouldn't be judge and jury in its own cases. The Strengthen Taxpayer Rights Act restores common-sense protections so that when an Iowan appeals an IRS decision, the process is truly independent, not predetermined by the same agency that made the call.” - Congressman Zach Nunn The legislation has garnered support from the National Taxpayers Union (NTU) and the Taxpayers Protection Alliance (TPA). Background: Building on the Taxpayer First Act of 2019, De La Cruz's legislation restores the historical independence of the IRS appeals process by ensuring that enforcement personnel cannot join conferences without taxpayer consent. While these sessions were traditionally neutral, a 2016 policy shift allowed IRS Counsel and Compliance to participate, even over a taxpayer’s objection. By codifying these protections, the Strengthen Taxpayer Rights Act ensures the Independent Office of Appeals remains a fair and unbiased forum for all taxpayers. JOIN MY EMAIL LIST SUBSCRIBE

VIDEO: De La Cruz on President Trump's State of the Union

Position: Congresswoman De La Cruz expresses support for the Trump Administration's economic policies, including tax cuts and inflation reduction, as well as border security measures.

WASHINGTON - Following President Trump's State of the Union Address this evening, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) released the statement below. The full statement can be found here or below. Over the last year, we have worked to fix the problems caused by the Biden Administration and deliver big wins for South Texans. We solidified historic tax cuts, drove down inflation, and secured the border. Today, prosperity is returning to our communities, and the dream of homeownership is once again becoming a reality for millions of families. This is just the beginning. I will continue to build on this progress and restore the American dream." - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz ###

De La Cruz, South Texas Leaders Meet with Speaker Johnson on Immigration

Position: De La Cruz advocates for streamlining visa programs and easing workforce shortages in agriculture and construction through immigration policy reforms, framed as addressing gaps in the immigration system.

This week, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) and South Texas community leaders met with Speaker Mike Johnson to discuss her proposals for key reforms to immigration policies, specifically legislation to streamline visa programs and ease workforce shortages, particularly in the agriculture and construction industries. Following their meeting, De La Cruz hosted a meeting with White House officials to continue discussions on her immigration proposals as a part of her South Texas (STX) Days district fly-in. "Speaker Johnson and White House officials are engaged and have heard our concerns for common-sense policies to bridge gaps in our immigration system and protect the American dream. On behalf of South Texas, I am fighting to deliver solutions to ensure our South Texas communities remain prosperous." - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz ###

De La Cruz's Bringing the Discount Window into the 21st Century Act Passes the House Floor

| Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz Javascript must be enabled for the correct page display Skip to Content facebook instagram twitter youtube Open search form Search Search form Submit Hit enter to search or ESC to close Menuicon Close Navigation Menuicon About Biography Committees Services Congressional Commendation Event Request Flag Request Help with a Federal Agency Kids Page Meeting Request Tour Requests Issues Key Issues Agriculture Budget Jobs and the Economy --> Voting Record Legislation Legislation Sponsored Legislation Co-sponsored Legislation --> Media Press Releases In the News --> Articles Photos Videos --> Contact Email Me E-Newsletter Sign Up Office Locations Interactive Map Opportunities for Texans America 250 Service Academy Nominations Congressional Art Competition Internships Grant Applications Washington DC Opportunities Open search form Search Site Submit facebook instagram twitter youtube Press Releases De La Cruz's Bringing the Discount Window into the 21st Century Act Passes the House Floor Share on Facebook Share on X Print this Page Share by Email WASHINGTON, February 10, 2026 WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz's (TX-15) Bringing the Discount Window into the 21st Century Act passed the House floor. The legislation addresses needed improvements for the Federal Reserve’s discount window operations and technology to better equip the mechanism to serve depository institutions, including community banks. This is De La Cruz's 8th bill passed off the House floor. De La Cruz spoke on the floor to urge her colleagues to support the bill. Watch the full clip here. "By improving efficiencies in the U.S. banking system, we are ensuring homeowners, small businesses, and farmers can access the capital they need. House passage is just the first step toward starting a comprehensive review and implementing improvements for the discount window. Next stop: the Senate!" - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz ### JOIN MY EMAIL LIST SUBSCRIBE

De La Cruz: Expanding Housing Affordability Through The Housing for the 21st Century Act

Position: De La Cruz supports the Housing for the 21st Century Act, which increases housing supply by reducing regulatory barriers and modernizing HUD programs, including provisions to update FHA mortgage insurance limits for multifamily construction, improve VA loan awareness for veterans, and strengthen coordination among federal housing agencies.

| Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz Javascript must be enabled for the correct page display Skip to Content facebook instagram twitter youtube Open search form Search Search form Submit Hit enter to search or ESC to close Menuicon Close Navigation Menuicon About Biography Committees Services Congressional Commendation Event Request Flag Request Help with a Federal Agency Kids Page Meeting Request Tour Requests Issues Key Issues Agriculture Budget Jobs and the Economy --> Voting Record Legislation Legislation Sponsored Legislation Co-sponsored Legislation --> Media Press Releases In the News --> Articles Photos Videos --> Contact Email Me E-Newsletter Sign Up Office Locations Interactive Map Opportunities for Texans America 250 Service Academy Nominations Congressional Art Competition Internships Grant Applications Washington DC Opportunities Open search form Search Site Submit facebook instagram twitter youtube Press Releases De La Cruz: Expanding Housing Affordability Through The Housing for the 21st Century Act Share on Facebook Share on X Print this Page Share by Email WASHINGTON, February 10, 2026 WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) spoke in support of Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill's Housing for the 21st Century Act. The legislation increases the housing supply by reducing overregulation and modernizing Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs. The legislative package includes three of De La Cruz's bipartisan provisions to update the Federal Housing Administration's (FHA) mortgage insurance loan limits for residential multifamily construction to bring more homes on the market, to ensure Veterans are made aware of their eligibility for VA loan products, and to strengthen the coordination of our federal housing agencies to maximize the impact of our current federal housing programs. De La Cruz's full floor remarks can be found here or read below. "Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 6644, the Housing for the 21st Century Act, sponsored by Chairman Hill. This legislation includes dozens of common-sense, bipartisan housing solutions that meet the needs of the housing crisis everyday Americans are dealing with. I am particularly proud to see three key provisions of mine included to update the FHA’s mortgage insurance loan limits for residential multifamily construction to bring more homes on the market; ensure Veterans are made aware of the VA loan products they are eligible for; and strengthen the coordination of our federal housing agencies to maximize the impact of our current federal housing programs. H.R. 6644 is a critical step towards putting our housing sector back on the right footing and I urge my colleagues to join me in support. Thank you, and I yield back." ### JOIN MY EMAIL LIST SUBSCRIBE