WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tony Gonzales (TX-23) introduced the International Bridge and Port of Entry Modernization Act. This legislation makes it possible for all U.S. international bridges and land ports of entry along our borders to qualify for a streamlined presidential permitting process. By reducing bureaucratic red tape to secure federal permission for bridge improvements, the bill paves the way to modernize and enhance our trade corridors in support of our international economy. 

Congressman Gonzales represents the largest border district in Congress, which contains various ports of entry along the U.S.-Mexico border, including in El Paso, Presidio, Maverick, Hudspeth, and Val Verde counties. 

U.S. Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.

“Improving our international bridges is absolutely critical not only to our Texas economy but to America’s global standing,” said Congressman Tony Gonzales. “From El Paso to Presidio to Del Rio to Eagle Pass, my district is home to key ports of entry, and we need to make sure gateways like these are modernized to the fullest extent so we can keep our trade flows strong. The International Bridge and Port of Entry Modernization Act does just that by cutting red tape to expedite permits for infrastructure projects along the border. Thank you to Senators Ted Cruz and Ben Ray Lujan for introducing and moving this bill in the Senate—I’m committed to working with my colleagues in the House to get this legislation on the President’s desk.”

"Streamlining the permitting process for bridge infrastructure between Texas and Mexico has been a top priority of mine. This bill builds on and expands our success in securing presidential permits for four major international bridge projects in South Texas by streamlining the approval process for all future international bridges along the Texas–Mexico border. I strongly urge my colleagues to pass this bill so it can be sent to the President for signature,” said Senator Ted Cruz.

“Ports of entry and international bridges are vital to the economic success of our border communities, supporting trade, business, and tourism. Yet, new border crossings are too often held up by the presidential permit process. I'm proud to introduce bipartisan legislation that will help streamline this process and deliver real investments to Santa Teresa and Sunland Park in New Mexico,” said Senator Ben Ray Lujan. 

Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) is an original cosponsor of the bill. The Texas Association of Business, American Trucking Association, City of Laredo, and the Texas International Produce Association endorsed the International Bridge and Port of Entry Modernization Act.  

For bill text, click here. 

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