Representative Morgan Luttrell (R-Texas) has introduced the Jalisco Cartel Neutralization Act in the House of Representatives. The legislation, according to a recent press release from Luttrell, is a companion bill to Senator Tom Cotton's (R-Arkansas) bill, which was previously introduced in the Senate.
The press release indicates that the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, led by Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes ("El Mencho"), is infamous for trafficking cocaine and methamphetamine. Known for its brutal methods including cannibalizing victims and using drones and rocket-propelled grenades in assaults, the Jalisco Cartel has been identified as Mexico's deadliest criminal organization as of 2020, second only to the Sinaloa Cartel in terms of influence.
According to the same press release, Luttrell's proposed legislation would mandate the US Department of Defense to focus on targeting the leadership of the Jalisco Cartel and provide Congress with updates on its progress.
Luttrell stated in his press release, "Our border is being exploited by cartels, as they run one of the most extensive human and drug trafficking operations in the world, leaving no corner of our country untouched by the danger of cartel activity." He continued by saying, "The Jalisco cartel, the most dangerous criminal organization in Mexico and second most powerful drug cartel, must be identified and dismantled in order to safeguard the American people. This legislation makes clear that the Jalisco cartel cannot remain emboldened at our border and that the United States military must be ready to engage and eliminate the Jalisco cartel if it is determined that using our Armed Forces is the best course of action."
The press release also highlighted that companion legislation has been introduced in the Senate by Senator Cotton.
Luttrell represents Texas' 8th District in the House of Representatives. This district includes several counties in and around Houston, Texas. A graduate of Sam Houston State University, Luttrell enlisted in the United States Navy and served for 14 years before taking office in 2023.
