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PC 412

Para añadir un sexto párrafo al Artículo 6 de la Ley 261-2004, según enmendada, conocida como "Ley del Voluntariado de Puerto Rico", a los fines de crear un programa de voluntariado adscrito al Departamento de Seguridad Pública para asistir en desastres y emergencias; y para otros fines relacionados.

2025-2028 Session

Puerto Rico creates a Department of Public Safety volunteer program to organize community volunteers for disaster and emergency response assistance.

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Bill Summary · PC 412

Legislative bill overview

Bill PC 412 proposes to amend Puerto Rico's Volunteer Law (Law 261-2004) by adding a sixth paragraph to Article 6 that creates a volunteer program under the Department of Public Safety. This program would specifically organize and coordinate volunteers to assist during disasters and emergency situations across the island.

Why is this important

Puerto Rico faces frequent natural disasters and emergencies due to its geographic location and climate vulnerabilities, making organized volunteer coordination critical for disaster response. Formalizing a volunteer program within the Department of Public Safety could improve emergency response efficiency, reduce response times, and potentially lower costs by leveraging community participation rather than relying solely on paid personnel and external aid.

Potential points of contention

  • Resource allocation and funding: The bill doesn't specify budget requirements, staffing, or operational costs for administering the volunteer program, raising questions about whether existing departmental budgets can absorb these responsibilities
  • Volunteer liability and insurance: Clarification is needed regarding liability protections, workers' compensation, insurance coverage, and legal responsibilities when volunteers respond to dangerous emergency situations
  • Coordination with existing entities: Potential overlap or coordination issues with municipal emergency management, existing volunteer organizations (Red Cross, faith-based groups), and National Guard operations during major disasters

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

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