Bill would impose tariffs on Mexican imports when Rio Grande water deliveries fall short
In committeeH.R. 9053Latest action
Sponsor: Monica De La Cruz · Representative · TX
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: WATER for Farmers Act
119th Congress
Topics: Jobs & the economy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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HR 9053 would trigger tariffs on Mexican agricultural imports and compensate South Texas farmers when Mexico misses its Rio Grande water deliveries.
70-second read · 5 questions answered below
What does this do?
HR 9053 would require the Secretary of State to track Mexico's annual Rio Grande water deliveries under the 1944 Water , which obligates Mexico to deliver at least 350,000 acre-feet per year averaged over five-year periods. If a shortfall is declared, the bill would impose tariffs on Mexican agricultural products and goods from regions that use Rio Grande water, starting 90 days after the declaration. Tariffs would increase if the shortfall extends into a second year or beyond.
Who does it affect?
South Texas farmers and agricultural businesses in the Rio Grande Valley are the primary domestic group affected, as are importers and businesses that purchase Mexican goods. Mexican farmers and exporters in border regions would also face reduced demand if tariffs take effect.
Why does it matter?
Imposing tariffs on Mexican goods could raise costs for U.S. importers and businesses that rely on those products. Mexican agricultural exporters in border regions could see reduced demand for their products as a result of the new import taxes.
What does it cost, and who pays?
- Tariff revenue funds South Texas farmers
- New trust fund created for compensation
- State Dept, USDA, USTR all involved
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Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedMay 29, 2026
- House committeeYou are here · May 29, 2026
- House vote
- Senate
- The president's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committees on Ways and Means, and Agriculture, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.