Border State Lawmaker Introduces Bill to Ensure Pay for Border Patrol Agents During Government Shutdown
In a move to protect Border Patrol agents from the financial impact of a potential government shutdown, Texas Representative Monica De La Cruz is reintroducing the Pay Our Border Patrol and Customs Agents Act. This legislation aims to guarantee that Customs and Border Protection (CBP) employees receive their salaries in the event of a government shutdown in FY 2025. The bill covers the salaries and expenses of Border Patrol agents and the Office of Field Operations, which staffs ports of entry.
De La Cruz emphasized the dedication and hard work of Border Patrol agents in safeguarding communities and securing the border. Under President Trump’s leadership, these agents have been able to effectively carry out their duties, resulting in historically low numbers of illegal crossings. De La Cruz stated that it is crucial to ensure that politics does not jeopardize their well-deserved paychecks.
The bill currently has 16 co-sponsors, including lawmakers from states along the border who understand the importance of border security. Its reintroduction comes at a time when concerns about a potential government shutdown are mounting. Congress has already passed two continuing resolutions to extend FY 2025 funding, but if no action is taken by March 14, there is a risk of a partial government shutdown during President Trump’s term.
To avoid this scenario, GOP leaders are working towards passing another continuing resolution that would fund the government until the end of fiscal year 2025. However, there is an impasse as Democratic lawmakers are demanding assurances that Trump will not bypass Congress and spend less money than what is allocated.
De La Cruz’s bill seeks to protect Border Patrol agents from any negative consequences if a government shutdown does occur. It aims to ensure that agents and officers continue to receive their salaries during any potential lapse in government funding. This bipartisan effort is seen as crucial in maintaining the stability and effectiveness of border security operations.
The reintroduction of the bill coincides with President Trump and Vice President JD Vance’s visit to the border in Texas, where they highlighted a significant decrease in border crossings since taking office. Vance praised the hard work and dedication of Border Patrol agents during his visit.
With the upcoming funding deadline, the Pay Our Border Patrol and Customs Agents Act presents a bipartisan solution to ensure that the brave men and women protecting the border are not financially impacted by political disagreements. It sends a clear message that their efforts are valued and supported by lawmakers.
