EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — Congresswoman Veronica Escobar announced her appointment by the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee to serve on the House Appropriations Committee on Tuesday, Jan. 7, according to a press release from Escobar's Office. The House Appropriations Committee is a "cornerstone of the federal budgeting process, responsible for crafting legislation that determines how taxpayer dollars are allocated to fund government agencies, programs, and operations. This powerful committee plays a critical role in shaping national priorities, and overseeing funding for essential areas such as defense, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and more," Escobar's Office said. Escobar's Office says she worked with the Appropriations Committee in 2019 and the Processing Coordinator to create a civilian position within DHS processing centers. In 2022, Escobar worked to create the Shelter and Services Program (SSP) which has reimbursed local governments millions of dollars for migrant care. “The work of the Appropriations Committee is critical to El Paso, from ensuring that overlooked populations receive adequate resources, to making our schools, healthcare, and other public services affordable and accessible for everyone,” said Congresswoman Escobar. “Representing a community with a significant federal law enforcement presence, a major military installation, one of the busiest trade corridors in the country, and hundreds of colonias all at the same time makes me keenly aware of the federal government’s obligations, challenges, and opportunities. I am deeply honored to serve on a committee with a such a significant ability to directly and positively impact El Paso.”