Para añadir un nuevo Artículo 130A a la Ley 146-2012, según enmendada, conocida como "Código Penal de Puerto Rico", a los fines de tipificar como delito la demora u omisión por parte de un proveedor de servicios de salud, en reportar la posible comisión de agresión sexual en una menor de dieciséis (16) años de edad o menos que ha quedado embarazada; disponer que todo proveedor de servicios de salud que advenga en conocimiento en el ejercicio de sus funciones de que una menor de dieciséis (16) años o menos ha quedado embarazada, deberá notificar dicho hecho a la División de Delitos Sexuales y Maltrato a Menores del Cuerpo de Investigaciones Criminales del Negociado de Policía de Puerto Rico en un período de tiempo no mayor de seis (6) horas de haber advenido en conocimiento de dicho hecho; y para otros fines relacionados.

2025-2028 Session

Bill PC 360 criminalizes healthcare providers' failure to report suspected child sexual abuse of pregnant girls under 16 to police within 6 hours, establishing mandatory rapid reporting requirements in Puerto Rico.

Comisión no recomienda aprobación de la medida

Legislative bill overview

Bill PC 360 proposes creating a new criminal offense in Puerto Rico's Penal Code requiring healthcare providers to report suspected sexual abuse of girls 16 years old or younger who become pregnant to law enforcement within 6 hours of discovery. Failure to report within this timeframe would constitute a criminal offense for the healthcare provider.

Why is this important

The bill addresses child sexual abuse by attempting to ensure rapid law enforcement notification in cases involving pregnant minors, which may indicate criminal activity. The 6-hour reporting requirement aims to improve investigation timelines and potentially protect vulnerable children from continued harm.

Potential points of contention

Medical confidentiality and reporting balance: Creates tension between mandatory reporting obligations and patient-doctor confidentiality; healthcare providers may face conflicting legal duties depending on patient consent and circumstances

Criminalization of healthcare providers: Penalizing healthcare workers for delayed reporting could discourage them from taking time for proper assessment, documentation, and potential victim consultation before reporting

6-hour timeline feasibility: Healthcare providers working in emergency settings, rural areas, or during overnight hours may face practical difficulties meeting this strict deadline, potentially leading to procedural violations rather than better child protection