McALLEN, TX – Today, President Donald Trump visited the Rio Grande Valley to participate in a roundtable on immigration and border security issues and receive a briefing on border security. During his visit, President Trump continued to call for a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border.

Senator Hinojosa released the following statement:

I appreciate President Trump visiting the Rio Grande Valley. We are proud of our safe border communities, culture, thriving economy, and proximity to Texas’ number one trading partner, Mexico.

To be clear, I do not support open borders. As a nation, we have the right to define and defend our border. And, we also have the right to know who comes into our country. As Vice Chair of the Senate Finance Committee, I have worked with Governor Abbott, Lt. Governor Patrick, and my legislative colleagues over the last three legislative sessions to craft smart border security solutions that keep Texans safe. Since 2013, Texas has spent more than $2.8 billion on border security. The past two sessions alone, Texas has invested at least $1.6 billion.

I agree with President Trump on funding the following:  cutting edge technology for detecting drugs, weapons, illegal contraband; more agents and immigration judges to process immigration cases; urgent request for humanitarian assistance and medical support. However, as a resident and representative of a community along the Texas-Mexico border, I can assure you that it is unnecessary to allocate billions of dollars for a border wall.

There are already strategically located structures, fences, and other barriers that can be improved and enhanced. However, we should not be extending them into environmentally sensitive areas such as Bentsen State Park. The effectiveness of these obstacles is questionable, as humans have found ways to circumvent walls for thousands of years. It is clear that the majority of drugs are brought into this country by cars, trains, planes, boats, and even submarines.

I would strongly urge and encourage President Trump to focus on border security instead of a wall.

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and serves on the Senate Committees on Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture, Water & Rural Affairs.

AUSTIN, TX – Lt. Governor Dan Patrick has appointed Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa to the Select Committee to Determine a Sufficient Balance of the Economic Stabilization Fund. The committee met this morning and adopted a sufficient balance of $7.5 billion.

Senator Hinojosa issued the following statement:

“It is an honor to be appointed to the Select Committee to Determine a Sufficient Balance of the Economic Stabilization Fund (ESF). The balance of the ESF is at an all-time high, so it is appropriate that the Legislature discuss ways to best use the fund to address the present and future needs of the state. At the same time, any expenditures of the fund must be thoughtful and deliberative so that we will have sufficient reserves to deal with exigent circumstances as they arrive, and so that we can maintain the state’s excellent credit rating.”

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and serves on the Senate Committees on Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture, Water & Rural Affairs.

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX – Yesterday, Valente Olivarez, Jr., P.E., began his new position as the Corpus Christi District Engineer for the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) after serving as Deputy District Engineer since 2015. Olivarez will supervise the planning, design, building, operation and maintenance of the state transportation system in the following counties: Aransas, Bee, Goliad, Jim Wells, Karnes, Kleberg, Live Oak, Nueces, Refugio and San Patricio.

Originally from Mission, Olivarez began his career with TxDOT at the Pharr Area Office in 1999 after graduating from Texas A&M University in Kingsville. Olivarez received several construction awards from the Association of General Contractors for his work in the Rio Grande Valley and eventually reached the position of Pharr Area Engineer in 2006.

In 2014, Olivarez was chosen as the Director of Operations for the Corpus Christi District, and the following year he was promoted to Deputy District Engineer. Olivarez served as project manager for the $1 billion Harbor Bridge project.

Senator Hinojosa issued the following statement regarding Olivarez:

“I congratulate Valente Olivarez, Jr. on his appointment as the new Corpus Christi District Engineer. With his background, knowledge, and experience, I am confident that he will effectively guide the Corpus Christi District. Olivarez has also proven his ability to lead throughout his career, especially as the project manager of the considerable Harbor Bridge project.

In every meeting I have participated in with former District Engineer Chris Caron regarding the Harbor Bridge project, Olivarez has been an active and knowledgeable participant.

As a South Texas native, Olivarez will be a great asset in overseeing the transportation infrastructure needs of the Corpus Christi District’s 10 counties. I look forward to working with him to improve mobility and enhance the quality of life and economic vitality of our region.”

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and serves on the Senate Committees on Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture, Water & Rural Affairs.

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX – Wednesday commemorates the legacy of Dr. Hector P. Garcia, a Mexican-American civil rights leader who founded the American GI forum and fought for the rights of Hispanics in this country. In 2009, Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa designated the third Wednesday in September as Dr. Hector P. Garcia Day through Senate Bill 495. The bill authorized the observance of the day by schools and state agencies to honor Dr. Garcia and teach our younger generations about his legacy. Senator Hinojosa also passed a resolution naming a portion of State Highway 286 the Dr. Hector P. Garcia Memorial Highway in Corpus Christi.

Dr. Garcia was a legendary physician and World War II Veteran who fought for the rights of Hispanics and veterans who were denied educational, medical and housing opportunities. He also fought for labor rights, voting rights, and justice system reform. He selflessly served and advocated for the most vulnerable and underserved portions in our communities.

Dr. Garcia was the first Mexican-American to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, our country’s highest civilian honor, and earned a Bronze Star and six battle stars for his military service. He served as an advisor to Presidents John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson and Jimmy Carter and served as the first Hispanic on the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights.

Senator Hinojosa commented on the value of commemorating Dr. Garcia’s contributions:

“All Texans should remember Dr. Hector P. Garcia, an extraordinary man who dedicated his life to public service and the equal treatment of all. Dr. Garcia courageously fought for the civil rights of veterans and Hispanics, breaking down the barriers they faced to education, health care, fair labor practices, and housing.

Dr. Garcia never wavered in his commitment to the United States Constitution and equality for all. In addition to being a strong advocate for equal rights, he provided medical care to underserved communities regardless of their ability to pay. As both a soldier and a civilian, Dr. Garcia demonstrated leadership and sacrifice in his fight to protect our liberties and ensure that all Americans are treated with dignity and respect.”

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and serves on the Senate Committees on Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture, Water & Rural Affairs.

McALLEN, TX — Residents in parts of Hidalgo County have suffered widespread or severe damage and loss of property from the torrential rain that has fallen in the region. Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa and Hidalgo County officials have contacted the state’s emergency management agencies, seeking a disaster declaration for Hidalgo County from Governor Greg Abbott.

Hidalgo County Judge Ramon Garcia has signed a local disaster declaration asking the state for recovery assistance and submitted it to the Governor.

Senator Hinojosa released the following statement:

“With the significant flooding that has occurred in Hidalgo County, a disaster declaration is certainly in order. Our residents and businesses need help getting their property repaired or restored as soon as possible so they can go about their lives. A disaster declaration will help our families with the stress they are under right now.

I have been in contact with Hidalgo County leaders and Governor Abbott’s staff and we are ready to assist in any manner possible to make sure Hidalgo County residents receive the help they need at this time.”

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and serves on the Senate Committees on Natural Resources & Economic Development, Agriculture, Water & Rural Affairs and Transportation.

MCALLEN, TX – Yesterday, after tireless efforts between Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, Congressman Henry Cuellar, Senator John Cornyn, Governor Greg Abbott, and McAllen Mayor Jim Darling, the Homeland Security Grants Division (HSGD) of the Governor’s Office announced the awarding of grants to several local entities for Humanitarian Relief for Unaccompanied Children and Families.

Together, Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley, the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley, and the City of McAllen were awarded over $350,000 in federal funds. These grant funds are to reimburse the entities for costs such as food, shelter transportation, and medical expenses incurred between 2014 and 2016 due to the large amount of unaccompanied minors crossing the U.S.-Mexico border into Texas.

In 2015, Senator Hinojosa, in coordination with Congressman Cuellar, added a measure into the state supplemental appropriations bill to reflect a provision in a federal appropriations bill that would allow the state to use Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funds to reimburse the entities for their costs incurred to provide humanitarian relief. However, due to a misinterpretation from FEMA, the release of the funds was delayed.

In 2017, Senator Hinojosa met with Governor Abbott’s staff who agreed to send a letter to FEMA requesting that previously awarded but unspent 2014 Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP) funds be returned to the State of Texas to relieve the financial burden on our border communities from humanitarian relief efforts. FEMA approved the request and, following an application process, granted the funds.

Senator Hinojosa issued the following statement:

“After years of effort, I’m pleased that the City of McAllen, Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley, and the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley have finally been reimbursed by the federal government for some of the costs they incurred in responding to the influx of unaccompanied children and families from Central America between 2014 and 2016.

I want to compliment Congressman Henry Cuellar, Senator John Cornyn, Governor Greg Abbott, and McAllen Mayor Jim Darling for working on this bipartisan effort between federal, state, and local officials to ensure that these entities did not bear all the costs associated with their herculean efforts to manage a humanitarian crisis.

I also want to thank Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley, the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley, and the City of McAllen for stepping up and providing humanitarian aid to children and families in their time of need.”

McAllen Mayor Jim Darling issued the following statement:

“Oh behalf of the City of McAllen, I want to express deep appreciation to Governor Greg Abbott and Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa for their efforts in obtaining the reimbursement funds for the City’s operational costs incurred at the respite center. Through their efforts, we were able to obtain reimbursement for providing some basic services in the operation of the center. I would also like to thank Senator Cornyn and Congressman Henry Cuellar for their efforts at the federal level.”

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and serves on the Senate Committees on Natural Resources & Economic Development, Agriculture, Water & Rural Affairs and Transportation.

Corpus Christi – Today, Nueces County finalized the sale of the Historic 1914 Nueces Courthouse to Nueces County Courthouse Development Partners, LLC. This brings closure to Nueces County’s financial obligation to secure and maintain the structure.

Senator Hinojosa issued the following statement:

“Congratulations to Nueces County and the Nueces County Courthouse Development Partners! I am pleased that after years of working with Judge Neal, Commissioner Pusley, and the Texas Historical Commission, we have finally found a solution for the use of the structure. The decision to sell the building, and the buyers agreement to maintain the historic structure, is a win for all. I can’t wait for the iconic building to be restored and turned into a beautiful hotel. I wish much success to the new owners.”

The Historic Courthouse was built in 1914 and served the county for over sixty years. In 1970, Hurricane Celia caused damage and the masonry veneer began to detach from the building. In 1977, the historic courthouse was left vacant as staff moved to the new courthouse. In 1976, the historic courthouse obtained a listing on the National Register of Historic Places. However, in 1995, the building was listed on the list of “Most Endangered Historic Properties.”

After several studies, the building was found to be structurally sound and in 2002, Nueces County was awarded an emergency grant of $1.9 million from the Texas Historical Commission to restore the exterior of the South wing and install a security system. The County also agreed to commit to the building’s preservation for another 25 years.

In 2010, Nueces County Commissioner Mike Pusley requested another structural evaluation of the building and hired an engineer to perform the study. After the study, Nueces County Judge Loyd Neal and Commissioner Pusley, pushed for the demolition of the structure. This prompted much discussion and a series of meetings to find a solution that was fair to the taxpayers, but also complied with prior agreements with the Texas Historical Commission to preserve the iconic building.

In December of 2015, Senator Hinojosa organized a meeting in Corpus Christi with Judge Neal, Commissioner Pusley, and Mark Wolfe, Executive Director of the Texas Historical Commission and his leadership staff to explore all options available to Nueces County to prevent the demolition of the building. It was made clear at this meeting that having a building sitting idle was not an option. The Texas Historical Commission went to work and presented the County with information to consider such as financial incentives including the federal and state historic preservation tax credit programs

Finally, due to the work of Judge Neal and Commissioner Pusley, an offer was made to purchase the Historic Courthouse. The company has agreed to abide by prior agreements to preserve the structure.

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa served as the Senate President Pro Tempore of the Texas Senate in the 84th Texas Legislature. Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and serves on the Senate Committees on Natural Resources & Economic Development, Agriculture, Water & Rural Affairs and Transportation.

AUSTIN – Today, the Texas Transportation Commission (TxDOT) approved an agenda item authorizing the first step in the procurement process for the full reconstruction of the US 83/US 281 Interchange (Pharr Interchange) project. By authorizing a Request for Qualifications (RFQ), TxDOT will now be accepting proposals from entities to enter into a design-build contract to reconstruct the Pharr Interchange. TxDOT had previously approved $150 million for this project.

Senator Hinojosa issued the following statement:

“This is a significant step forward for the reconstruction of the Pharr Interchange that will benefit the entire Rio Grande Valley region. I appreciate the Texas Transportation Commission, TxDOT leadership, and our local public officials for their tireless efforts in advocating for this project, which will now be a reality. For too long, we have known that the initial design of the Pharr Interchange was not made for the growth we have experienced in the RGV, and created a big congestion problem in Hidalgo County. The Pharr Interchange is a key intersection that helps keep people and goods moving, and this project will not only address current congestion but will better prepare us for future growth. The reconstruction of this interchange will help the Texas economy and improve the quality of life for our RGV residents.”

The Pharr Interchange Project will provide approximately 7.8 miles of non-tolled improvements along US 83 from just west of 2nd Street to just east of FM 2557 (S. Stewart Road) and US 281 from Nolana Loop to I-2 in McAllen, Pharr, and San Juan. The proposed improvements include the full reconstruction of the Pharr Interchange to include two-lane direct connectors in all four directions. The US 83 general purpose lanes will be reconstructed and/or widened from six to eight non-tolled general purpose lanes (four in each direction) from 2nd Street to the US 83/US 281 interchange, while operational improvements include the reconfiguration of main lane ramps and improvements to the approaches and departures to and from the direct connectors.

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa served as the Senate President Pro Tempore of the Texas Senate in the 84th Texas Legislature. Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and serves on the Senate Committees on Natural Resources & Economic Development, Agriculture, Water & Rural Affairs and Transportation.

AUSTIN, TX –  Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa would like to remind Texans that the Water-Efficient Products Sales Tax Holiday will take place during Memorial Day Weekend, beginning Saturday, May 26, through Monday, May 28 (Memorial Day).

In 2015, Senator Hinojosa passed Senate Bill 1356 allowing for the purchase of water conservation products and/or a WaterSense product without paying a sales tax. This tax free weekend is intended to incentivize consumers statewide to make smart choices in conserving water. Water efficient products save consumers money and reduce consumption rates of water, one of our state’s most valuable resources.

Tax free items include shower heads, a soaker or drip-irrigation hose, mulch, plants, trees, and grasses, rain barrels, a moisture control for a sprinkler or irrigation system, and others. There is no limit on the number of qualifying items you can purchase. The following link to the Texas Comptroller’s webpage will provide more information:  https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/publications/98-1018.php

Senator Hinojosa issued the following statement:

“Almost half of the state is now under drought conditions, including portions of the Rio Grande Valley and Nueces County. Things are even worse in West Texas and the Panhandle, leading Governor Abbott to issue a State Disaster Declaration for more than 70 counties due to drought.

We must prepare for the possible return of long periods of drought and proactively conserve water. I am proud to have passed legislation which helps our families and businesses receive a tax break for doing their part to help by using water-efficient products. Even better, water conservation will save families money on their water bills.”

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa served as the Senate President Pro Tempore of the Texas Senate in the 84th Texas Legislature. Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and serves on the Senate Committees on Natural Resources & Economic Development, Agriculture, Water & Rural Affairs and Transportation.

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX –  Today, Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa was presented with the Law & Order Award by Rob Kepple, Executive Director of the Texas District & County Attorneys Association (TDCAA), for Senator Hinojosa’s legislative work on criminal justice issues during the 85th Texas Legislature.

In addition to securing additional funding for border prosecutions during this most recent legislative session, Hinojosa authored and passed Senate Bill 298 and Senate Bill 1124 to ensure the continued operation and success of the Texas Forensic Science Commission. He also sponsored and passed legislation to address pharmacy burglaries, thefts of controlled substances, and improved state monitoring of opioid prescriptions.

This is Senator Hinojosa’s second time receiving the Law & Order award. Senator Hinojosa first received the award after the 81st Texas Legislature for his work on justice and public safety issues.

The Texas District and County Attorneys Association (TDCAA) is the largest statewide professional association of prosecutors in the nation.  It provides educational and technical assistance to Texas prosecutors and serves as a legislative resource on criminal, civil, and juvenile justice issues. Upon the conclusion of each legislative session, TDCAA’s Board of Directors presents a select group of legislators with a Law & Order Award in recognition of their contributions to justice and public safety in Texas. TDCAA is a non-partisan association and does not endorse candidates for political office.

Rob Kepple, TDCAA Executive Director, issued the following statement:

“Senator Hinojosa has been an influential member of the Texas Legislature on criminal justice issues, and this award recognizes his efforts. Senator Hinojosa has been especially helpful in directing needed resources to prosecutors’ offices in the border region, and his continued support of the Border Prosecution Unit is appreciated.”

Senator Hinojosa issued the following statement:

“It is a great honor to receive TDCAA’s Law & Order Award for the second time. As an attorney and the father of an assistant district attorney in Hidalgo County, I have tremendous respect for the work of our district and county attorneys. TDCAA has been a great resource throughout my years of working on criminal justice issues, and I look forward to partnering with them again in the future.”

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa served as the Senate President Pro Tempore of the Texas Senate in the 84th Texas Legislature. Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and serves on the Senate Committees on Natural Resources & Economic Development, Agriculture, Water & Rural Affairs and Transportation.