Summary of PS 290
Overview
Bill Number: PS 290
Title: "To add a new Article 8.2 and renumber the current Articles 8.2, 8.3, 8.4, 8.5 and 8.6 as Articles 8.3, 8.4, 8.5, 8.6 and 8.7 of Law 38-2017, as amended, known as the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, in order to ensure that the validity of certifications and documents produced by the Government of Puerto Rico and presented to an agency as part of an administrative proceeding is extended; and for other related purposes."
Status: Referred to Committee(s)
Introduced: January 28, 2025
Purpose and Intent
The main purpose of PS 290 is to extend the validity of certifications and documents produced by the Government of Puerto Rico that are presented to government agencies as part of administrative proceedings. This bill aims to ensure that these official documents do not expire or become invalid during the course of an administrative process, providing more stability and continuity for individuals and businesses interacting with the government.
Key Provisions
- Adds a new Article 8.2 to the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act to establish that:
- Certifications, permits, licenses, and other official documents issued by the Government of Puerto Rico remain valid for the duration of any administrative proceeding in which they are presented.
- The validity period of these documents is automatically extended for the length of the administrative process, even if the normal expiration date would have passed.
- Renumbers the existing Articles 8.2 through 8.6 as Articles 8.3 through 8.7 to accommodate the new provision.
Affected Parties and Impacts
This bill would primarily impact individuals and businesses that regularly interact with Puerto Rico government agencies through administrative proceedings, such as:
- Applicants for government permits, licenses, or certifications
- Parties involved in administrative hearings or appeals
- Companies submitting documentation to agencies as part of regulatory compliance
By ensuring the continued validity of official documents, PS 290 would help streamline administrative processes and reduce the burden on citizens and businesses of having to repeatedly renew or resubmit the same paperwork.
Procedural and Timeline Considerations
PS 290 has been referred to one or more legislative committees for further review and consideration. If reported favorably, the bill would then proceed to a full floor vote in the Puerto Rico legislature. If passed, it would be sent to the Governor for potential signature into law. The specific timeline for this process is not yet determined.
