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PC 809

Para adicionar un nuevo Artículo 34.7 y un Artículo 34.8; renumerar el Artículo 34.7 como Artículo 34.9 de la Ley Núm. 239 de 1 de septiembre de 2004, según enmendada, conocida como “Ley General de Sociedades Cooperativas de Puerto Rico de 2004”, a fin de establecer mecanismos flexibles para aquellas cooperativas de trabajo asociado que se organicen con sólo ocho (8) miembros, y no menos de cinco (5).

2025-2028 Session

Reduces minimum membership for worker cooperatives from current requirements to 8 members (minimum 5) to enable smaller groups to form flexible cooperative enterprises in Puerto Rico.

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Bill Summary · PC 809

Legislative bill overview

Bill PC 809 amends Puerto Rico's General Cooperative Societies Law (2004) to create flexible mechanisms for worker-associated cooperatives that can operate with as few as 8 members (instead of a higher requirement), with a minimum threshold of 5 members. The bill restructures existing articles by adding two new provisions and renumbering subsequent articles.

Why is this important

This measure aims to lower barriers to entry for workers seeking to form cooperative enterprises in Puerto Rico, potentially expanding economic participation and entrepreneurship among smaller groups. Lower membership requirements could facilitate job creation and worker ownership models in underserved communities, though it also reduces the membership base that traditionally provides financial stability and decision-making diversity.

Potential points of contention

  • Financial viability concerns: Smaller cooperatives with only 5-8 members may lack sufficient capital and revenue diversification to sustain operations during economic downturns
  • Governance complexity: Fewer members could create challenges in maintaining democratic decision-making structures and managing internal conflicts typical to cooperative models
  • Regulatory burden: The "flexible mechanisms" language is vague—unclear what specific exemptions or modifications apply, potentially creating implementation inconsistencies or unequal treatment among cooperatives

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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