WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representatives Gary Palmer (AL-06), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Robert Aderholt (AL-04), Jerry Carl (AL-01), Barry Moore (AL-02), Mike Rogers (AL-03), and Dale Strong (AL-05) released the following statement in response to Mexico’s government continually attempting to unlawfully seize land owned and operated by Vulcan Materials Company, an Alabama-based construction aggregates producer: “Make no mistake, Mexico's recent actions to label Vulcan's land and port as a ‘naturally protected area’ is an expropriation of a lawfully permitted, U.S.-owned operation. This comes after the Mexican government has illegally shut down Vulcan's operations for 26 months and illegally invaded their property twice with their military. Should Mexico proceed with its intended proposal, it will set a dangerous precedent, harming economic development and the trade relationship between our two countries. This is especially concerning as Mexico is seeking U.S. interest and investment in infrastructure and near-shoring opportunities. Our delegation has taken numerous legislative actions that will counter Mexico’s unlawful aggressions, and, should Mexico act, we are well positioned to ensure no individual or entity will benefit off the theft of Vulcan’s property and port. Accordingly, we urge Mexico to reverse the actions taken against Vulcan and work towards a beneficial solution for all parties involved,” said Reps. Palmer, Sewell, Aderholt, Carl, Moore, Rogers, and Strong. Overview of Recent Actions Taken by the Delegation: - May 13, 2024, Letter to Secretary Barcena urging Mexico to reverse its unlawful treatment of Vulcan and find an amicable path forward.
- Inclusion of language in the FY 2025 National Defense Authorization Action for US Department of Defense to examine the impacts of foreign nation seizing the only deep-water port on the Yucatan.
- Inclusion of language in the FY 2025 State and Foreign Operations Appropriations Act that condemns Mexico’s aggression and directs the Department of State to develop a responsive strategy to represent commercial interests of the United States, including diplomatic incentives and disincentives for Mexico to stop interfering with American companies.
- Working with broad range of bipartisan Members of Congress to introduce HR 8411, the Defending American Property Abroad Act, which would prohibit vessels from entering the U.S. if they utilize port and connected infrastructure seized by a Western Hemisphere trading partner.
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