Committee advances SB 12 72, seeking $5 million state match to secure federal Douglas Port of Entry investment

The Red Committee voted to advance Senate Bill 12 72, a measure that would appropriate $5,000,000 from the state general fund in fiscal year 2027 to the state treasurer as a state match linked to a U.S. General Services Administration award for a new Douglas Port of Entry.

Adele, an assistant analyst for House Majority Research, told the committee SB 12 72 "appropriates $5,000,000 from the state general fund to the state treasurer in fiscal year 2027 for the state match of the Douglas Port Of Entry and allows expenditures to be made upon the US General Services Administration's award of $678,000,000 for the Douglas Port Of Entry." She offered to answer questions from members.

The bill sponsor framed the port as both an economic and security priority, arguing a modern Douglas port would capture trade now routed through other states and help interdict illegal drugs and human trafficking. "This will be great for us because it gives us another avenue, a tremendous avenue of support that we can continue to do our trade with Mexico and abroad," the sponsor said.

Mayor Jose Grijalva of Douglas told the committee the General Services Administration has committed to a two-port solution of about $670 million and that the city has donated land and begun design work. "GSA has informed us that if we do not secure the remaining funds by September 2026, any potential delays to the project could cause funding to be pulled or canceled," Grijalva said, asking the committee to support the appropriation.

Brian Murray, speaking for the City of Douglas, gave additional funding details: the city has secured about $20,000,000 of the roughly $50,000,000 it says is needed by the September deadline, is pursuing another $11,000,000 from the Army Corps of Engineers, and still faces a roughly $20,000,000 shortfall. Murray said the city has explored general obligation bonds but lacks time for an election and has sought other public and private sources.

After questions from committee members about federal matching timelines and private participation, Vice Chair Representative Volk moved to return the bill with a "view pass" recommendation. The committee took a roll call and the measure passed 6 ayes, 0 nays, 0 present, and 1 absent. The committee adjourned.

Vote at a glance: 6–0 in favor; members recorded as voting yes were Representative Walt Blackman, Representative Michelle Pena, Representative Kashukai, Representative Boldt, Vice Chair Lopez, and Chair Martinez.