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Bill

PC 995

Para añadir un nuevo Artículo 4.009-A a la Ley Núm. 107 de 13 de agosto de 2020, conocida como “Código Municipal de Puerto Rico”, a los fines de establecer como primera opción la celebración de vistas adjudicativas mediante el mecanismo de videoconferencia; ordenar la adopción o enmiendas a la reglamentación y para otros fines relacionados.

2025-2028 Session

Puerto Rico bill establishes videoconferencing as the default method for municipal administrative hearings, requiring regulatory updates across municipalities.

Firmado por el Presidente del Senado
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · PC 995

Legislative bill overview

Bill PC 995 proposes adding a new Article 4.009-A to Puerto Rico's Municipal Code to establish videoconferencing as the primary method for conducting adjudicative hearings in municipalities. The bill requires municipalities to adopt or amend regulations to implement this videoconference-first approach for administrative proceedings.

Why is this important

This change affects how citizens interact with municipal government in legal and administrative matters. It could improve accessibility for people with mobility limitations or those living far from municipal seats, but also raises concerns about digital equity, due process protections, and the quality of remote hearings compared to in-person proceedings.

Potential points of contention

  • Digital divide concerns: Not all Puerto Rican residents have reliable internet access or technology, potentially disadvantaging lower-income populations in adjudicative proceedings
  • Due process implications: Questions about whether videoconference hearings provide adequate opportunity to present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and ensure fair treatment compared to in-person hearings
  • Implementation burden: Municipalities may lack resources or technical infrastructure to properly implement and maintain videoconferencing systems for judicial proceedings

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

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