Reps. Jacobs and Vargas Secure Legislative Fix to Transfer $300 Million to Combat Cross-Border Pollution
Reps. Jacobs and Vargas Secure Legislative Fix to Transfer $300 Million to Combat Cross-Border Pollution
WASHINGTON, D.C (July 7, 2022) — Today, Congressmembers Sara Jacobs and Juan Vargas announced that language included in the House State and Foreign Operations bill would authorize the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to transfer $300 million to the International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC) for the purposes of planning, study, design, and construction, of wastewater treatment works.
“Adding this language to the annual funding bill authorizes the EPA to transfer $300 million to the IBWC, allowing them to work together to address a problem that has gone on for far too long. This is an important step forward in providing a safer and healthier community for San Diegans and our cross-border neighbors. I am proud to work alongside Congressman Vargas to provide tangible, effective solutions in our continued efforts to improve the livelihood of our constituents,” said Rep. Jacobs.
“In 2019, my San Diego Delegation colleagues and I secured $300 million to address the ongoing cross-border pollution in my district,” said Rep. Vargas. “I’m proud to have worked diligently to create a legislative solution that would allow the IBWC to use these funds. I’m grateful to my colleague, Rep. Jacobs, for her leadership and collaboration on this crucial issue. This funding will allow federal and international government agencies to take meaningful action against harmful pollutants and ensure that we prioritize the health and safety of communities on both sides of the border. It’s an honor to have championed this effort alongside Rep. Jacobs, and I look forward to voting for this solution when it comes to the House floor.”
The State and Foreign Operations bill now moves to the House floor and will then move to the Senate for consideration. The full bill text can be found here.
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Vargas represents California’s 51st Congressional District which includes the southern portion of San Diego County, all of Imperial County and California’s entire U.S.-Mexico border. Vargas was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2012 and is currently serving his fifth term in Congress. He serves on the House Financial Services Committee and House Foreign Affairs Committee.