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PC 433

Para añadir un inciso (g) al Artículo 3 de la Ley 454-2000, según enmendada, conocida como “Ley de Flexibilidad Administrativa y Reglamentaria para el Pequeño Negocio”, a los fines de disponer que los reglamentos de suministro de servicios esenciales que contengan una fianza de pago o depósito permitirán el pago prorrateado del monto requerido; disponiéndose, sin embargo, que la entidad gubernamental correspondiente podrá imponer un cargo equivalente al cinco (5%) por ciento del total requerido de fianza, cuando se otorgue el pago diferido de la misma.

2025-2028 Session

Puerto Rico bill allows small businesses to pay essential service bonds in installments with a 5% administrative fee, improving cash flow access for regulated enterprises.

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Bill Summary · PC 433

Legislative bill overview

Bill PC 433 amends Puerto Rico's Small Business Administrative and Regulatory Flexibility Law (Law 454-2000) to allow small businesses to pay required bonds or deposits for essential services in installments rather than lump sums. The bill permits government agencies to charge a 5% administrative fee on the total bond amount when allowing deferred payment arrangements.

Why is this important

For small businesses in Puerto Rico, upfront bond requirements for essential services (water, electricity, telecommunications) can create significant cash flow barriers to operation or expansion. Allowing installment payments with a modest fee could improve business accessibility while generating modest revenue for government agencies managing these bonds.

Potential points of contention

  • 5% fee structure: Critics may argue the fee is excessive relative to actual administrative costs of payment processing, or conversely, that it's insufficient compensation for extended payment risk
  • Definition gaps: The bill doesn't specify payment schedule terms, frequency, or duration, potentially creating inconsistency across different agencies and service types
  • Competitive impact: Questions about whether this primarily benefits small businesses or could be exploited by larger entities; unclear if eligibility is restricted by business size or revenue thresholds
  • Risk allocation: Government absorbs collection risk during installment periods; default procedures and enforcement mechanisms are not addressed in the amendment

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

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