The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a bill that dedicates $250 million in federal funds to state and local projects along the U.S. Mexico border during the next five years. Congressman Bob Filner says the bill marks a shift in how the federal government views the border. KPBS reporter Amy Isackson has details.
The bill sets aside $40 million for the first year and then adds $5 million for the next five years.
Local, state and both public and non-profit organizations can apply for the funds for infrastructure projects.
Congressman Bob Filner says grants will also be awarded for other kinds of projects that create jobs and economic growth.
Filner's district runs the length of the California Mexico border. He says the grants will give new hope to people who see potential along the border but have had trouble getting projects off the ground.
Filner : The federal government has been looking, especially since 9-11, at the border as just a source of terrorists and illegals. And this says that the federal government is going to be involved not just with enforcement of security measures but economic development measures also.
The bill still needs the president's signature.
Filner says it'll take at least a year to set up the grant process.
Amy Isackson, KPBS News.
