U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28), a senior member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, has expressed satisfaction after voting in favor of H.R. 2670, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year (FY) 2024.

Cuellar played a crucial role in securing key provisions in the 2024 NDAA, aimed at addressing the needs of South Texas communities. Notably, these provisions include an increase in overtime pay for Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents and the acceleration of the Presidential permitting process for specific border bridges.

In a statement, Congressman Cuellar highlighted the importance of the legislation in prioritizing American national security and providing historic funding for troops and their families. Cuellar emphasized his role in ensuring fair compensation for Border Patrol Agents, particularly those working in challenging conditions along the Southern border.

One significant achievement is the guarantee that Border Patrol agents will now be fairly compensated for all hours worked, including overtime. This change brings CBP policies in line with other federal agencies and is expected to address hiring and retention challenges faced by the agency. The pay reform has received appreciation from the National Border Patrol Council, with Vice President Hector Garza acknowledging Cuellar's efforts in securing these crucial changes.

Cuellar's involvement in streamlining the Presidential permitting process for border bridges is also evident in the FY24 NDAA. The legislation includes language directing the President to issue conditional permits for projects while ongoing environmental reviews are being conducted under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). This move is designed to expedite construction projects at border crossings, addressing the lengthy delays associated with the current permitting process.

As Ranking Member of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Appropriations, Cuellar has consistently supported and advocated for border law enforcement personnel. In previous bills, he secured funding for additional Border Patrol Agents, Border Patrol Processing Coordinators, Customs Officers, and other essential staff, along with pay increases over several years.

The FY24 NDAA, with a discretionary topline budget of approximately $876.8 billion, is a comprehensive legislative framework specifying the budget and expenditures for the U.S. Department of Defense.