Rep. Gabe Vasquez Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Combat Cartel Recruitment of Students

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Thursday, April 18, 2024, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-NM-02) introduced the bipartisan H.R. 8058,No More Narcos Act, which addresses the alarming practice of middle and high school students being recruited to act as human and drug smugglers for cartels and coyotes. The consequences of non-compliance with these criminal entities are severe, often endangering the lives of the students and their families. The bill is co-lead by Rep. Doug Lamborn (R-CO-05).

“As a border representative, I’ve heard directly from families, educators and law enforcement about the predatory recruitment of minors to facilitate the illegal smuggling of drugs and people. The bipartisan No More Narcos Act is a firm stance against this exploitation,” said Vasquez. “Every student deserves a childhood free from manipulation and fear. This bill provides the education needed in our border communities to counter predatory smugglers and cartel activity in our communities.”

“I am co-leading this bill because it is vital to the safety and prosperity of our youth. The presence of cartels and other Transnational Criminal Organizations are increasing each day in our border communities and across the nation,” said Lamborn. “No child should be recruited by the cartel or fear retribution.” 

The No More Narcos Act proposes the establishment of an educational campaign to be carried out by law enforcement agencies, educators and community organizers. This campaign will directly engage middle and high school students within 100 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border, educating them on the perils associated with involvement in cartel activities. The campaign will be funded with the proceeds from seizures from criminal groups. 

Border communities such as Sunland Park, New Mexico, are on the front lines of this problem. 

“On behalf of the Sunland Park Police Department I thank and commend Representative Vasquez for his continued support and bringing awareness to the dangers our middle and high school students face relating to the current border crisis. Representative Vasquez truly cares about the well-being, safety and future of our children,” said Sunland Park Police Chief Eric Lopez.

“New Mexico’s students are our most precious resource, and as educators, we should be doing everything in our power to protect them from the harmful influence of criminal organizations. We thank Congressman Vasquez for his leadership in promoting student safety through his introduction of the No More Narcos Act, and we look forward to working with him to continue bringing awareness to this issue,” said Whitney Holland, President of the American Federation of Teachers New Mexico. 

Vasquez remains committed to advocating for the safety and well-being of our children and border communities.

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