Should the House Express its Strong Commitment to the U.S.-Mexico Partnership? (H. Res. 336)
Do you support or oppose this bill?
What is H. Res. 336?
(Updated May 23, 2019)
This resolution would reaffirm the House of Representatives’ commitment to a U.S.-Mexico partnership based on mutual respect and the promotion of shared democratic values. It would express support for: 1) continued bilateral cooperation through the High Level Economic Dialogue on issues related to the economic well-being and security of both countries; 2) continued engagement with Mexico to tackle regional issues and work together in international fora; and 3) efforts by the Mexican government to strengthen the rule of law, reduce corruption, and advance civil and human rights.
It would encourage continued security cooperation between the U.S. and Mexican law enforcement agencies and militaries.
As a simple resolution, this legislation wouldn’t advance beyond the House if passed and wouldn’t carry the force of law.
Argument in favor
While there are areas of the U.S.-Mexico relationship that can be improved, Mexico is one of America’s closest partners in terms of economic and security matters. The House should acknowledge that.
Argument opposed
Mexico is obviously a close ally and trading partner, but the House passing this resolution doesn’t do anything to substantively improve that relationship other than offer kind words.
Impact
The Mexican government; and the House of Representatives.
Cost of H. Res. 336
A CBO cost estimate is unavailable.
Additional Info
In-Depth: Sponsoring Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY) introduced this bill to underscore the importance of a U.S.-Mexico relationship based on mutual respect and a deepening of that partnership:
“It’s hard to overstate the importance of the U.S.-Mexico relationship and the enormous impact it has on Americans every single day. Mexico is a friend and an ally, our third largest trading partner and a country with which we share deep person-to-person, cultural and family ties. It is also a country with which we’ve painstakingly cultivated a vibrant, critical partnership. We’ve come too far to turn back now, and Congress must reject all efforts to downgrade our bilateral relationship.”
Original cosponsor Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX) added:
“For years, the United States and Mexico have benefited from bilateral cooperation on issues critical to the national and economic security interests of our respective countries. As our third largest trading partner, we are mutually reliant on the need for a secure border and the free flow of commerce. While there are areas in our relationship that can be improved, the role Mexico plays in enhancing our security and bolstering our economy cannot be overstated. As we move forward in our relationship, we must not forget this. That is why I am proud to cosponsor this resolution to reaffirm our strong, longstanding partnership with Mexico and highlight ongoing efforts between our two countries to strengthen cooperation. A stronger relationship we have with Mexico means a stronger and safer homeland for Americans.”
This legislation passed the House Foreign Affairs Committee on a voice vote and has the support of 34 bipartisan cosponsors, including 22 Democrats and 12 Republicans.
Media:
Summary by Eric Revell
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