Bipartisan legislation introduced in the House seeks to modernize infrastructure at American land ports of entry to boost border security and enhance trade, law makers said.
The legislation, the Strong Borders, Strong Communities Act, U.S. Reps. Tony Gonzales (R-TX) and Julie Johnson (D-TX), alongside U.S. Sens. John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), would establish a dedicated funding stream for the construction and modernization of land port of entry-related infrastructure. Additionally, the funding would improve trade and travel efficiency, while supporting rural border communities, the law makers said.
“Land ports of entry along the border are critical to our national economy. However, to truly capture the value of cross-border trade, we must ensure our international bridges are modernized and properly maintained,” Gonzales said. “This new legislation, the Strong Ports, Strong Communities Act repurposes federal funding to make targeted and meaningful investments for unique local infrastructure needs along the border.”
The funds from the bill could be used for a variety of projects, law makers said, including roads, bridges, wastewater treatment, and other related community infrastructure enhancements that are of particular value to border communities.
“Land ports of entry handle nearly 20 percent of our country’s international trade and play a critical role in preventing dangerous drugs, contraband, and human trafficking from entering our communities. But too many of ports and surrounding towns are being stretched to the breaking point,” Gallego said. “At ports like Nogales, tens of thousands of trucks cross into Arizona every month, putting a significant burden on local roads and bridges. When I met with officials in Douglas and Nogales, they made it clear that their communities can’t shoulder these costs alone. This bill delivers the dedicated support these ports and communities need to keep trade moving, strengthen security, and protect the people who live and work there.”
The legislation is endorsed by the Border Trade Alliance and Fresh Produce Association.