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PC 1147

Para añadir los incisos (e), (f), (g) y (h) al Artículo 24 de la Ley Núm. 83-2025, conocida como “Ley de la Policía de Puerto Rico”, a los fines de expandir las funciones de la Junta de Evaluación Médica e incluir servicios de psicología clínica ‘in-house’ en cada una de las trece (13) comandancias regionales de la Policía de Puerto Rico; asignar un mínimo de trece (13) puestos de psicólogos clínicos licenciados para atender crisis emocionales y estrés laboral de los agentes; establecer mecanismos de financiamiento y evaluación de impacto; y para otros fines relacionados.

2025-2028 Session

Bill PC 1147 mandates 13 licensed clinical psychologists at Puerto Rico's regional police commands to provide mental health services to officers experiencing work stress and emotional crises.

Remitido a la Comisión de Reglas y Calendario del Senado
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Bill Summary · PC 1147

Legislative bill overview

Bill PC 1147 expands Puerto Rico's Police Medical Evaluation Board to include in-house clinical psychology services at all 13 regional police commands. It mandates a minimum of 13 licensed clinical psychologist positions to address emotional crises and work-related stress among officers, with provisions for funding mechanisms and impact evaluation.

Why is this important

Police officer mental health directly affects public safety outcomes, officer retention, and the quality of police-community interactions. Providing accessible mental health support can reduce officer-involved incidents, decrease suicide rates among law enforcement (a significant occupational risk), and improve overall departmental functioning. This represents a shift toward preventative mental health care within a traditionally under-resourced public security system.

Potential points of contention

  • Budgetary feasibility: The bill requires ongoing funding for 13 salaried psychologist positions across 13 commands; implementation costs and sustainability within Puerto Rico's fiscal constraints require clarification
  • Recruitment and retention: Puerto Rico faces chronic shortages of licensed clinical psychologists; the bill doesn't address how to attract or retain qualified professionals in these positions
  • Accessibility vs. confidentiality concerns: Officers may hesitate to use in-house services due to privacy concerns about career consequences; the bill lacks explicit protections for confidentiality and non-retaliation safeguards

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

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