Congressman Pete Gallego – 100 Days In
Washington, D.C.: Today marks the first 100 days of the 113th Congress. Since being sworn-in to office on January 3, 2013, Congressman Gallego has visited all 29 counties in congressional district 23- which is larger geographically than 29 U.S. States. He is on track to opening five offices across the district where people can go to for assistance- and will be the first person to represent the 23rd district with an office in El Paso County. You can watch a video summary of Congressman Gallego’s first 100 days.
VIDEO: 100 DAYS IN
Military Families
Congressman Gallego filed legislation to improve the access to health care of rural veterans by giving them transportation to medical centers. The Department of Veterans Affairs adopted a rule that mirrored the legislation shortly thereafter – authorizing grants so that rural veterans can travel to get the care they need. Congressman Gallego worked with Republicans and Democrats to passed an amendment prioritizing job training for veterans in the field of advanced manufacturing so that they can better compete in the work force.
Agriculture
Texas has been hard-hit by the drought. Congressman Gallego worked with his colleagues on the border to ask the Mexican government to comply with the terms of a water treaty. After the inquiries, the Mexican government released some water. He also sought and obtained an extension from the government for Hispanic and women farmers and ranchers raising claims under the Garcia v USDA litigation.
Border Issues
In a district with 800 miles of border and five ports of entry, jobs, small businesses, and the livelihoods of many families in Texas are linked to trade and commerce at our ports of entry. Congressman Gallego sponsored legislation to improve infrastructure and reduce wait times at international bridges. Similar language was included in a bill that is on its way to the President’s desk. Congressman Gallego has also been at the forefront of condemning the negative impacts of sequestration, including sending letters to leadership on its effects.
