Para crear el “Registro y Sistema de Certificación de Empresas Propiedad de Mujeres de Puerto Rico”, adscrito al Departamento de Desarrollo Económico y Comercio de Puerto Rico, con el propósito de establecer un mecanismo uniforme de identificación, certificación y recopilación de datos sobre empresas propiedad de mujeres; promover su participación efectiva en programas de desarrollo económico, iniciativas empresariales y oportunidades de mercado existentes; establecer deberes y responsabilidades para las agencias e instrumentalidades del Gobierno de Puerto Rico en la utilización de dicha certificación; disponer para la recopilación y publicación de estadísticas oficiales sobre el emprendimiento femenino en Puerto Rico; establecer disposiciones para su reglamentación e implantación con recursos existentes; y para otros fines relacionados.

2025-2028 Session

Creates Puerto Rico women-owned business registry and certification system to increase government procurement access, data collection, and economic development opportunities for female entrepreneurs.

Referido a Comisión(es)

Legislative bill overview

Bill PS 1123 creates a Registry and Certification System for Women-Owned Businesses in Puerto Rico, administered by the Department of Economic Development and Commerce. The system aims to identify, certify, and collect data on women-owned enterprises while requiring government agencies to utilize this certification in procurement and economic development programs. It also mandates the collection and publication of official statistics on female entrepreneurship in Puerto Rico.

Why is this important

Women-owned businesses represent a significant but often underutilized economic segment. A formal certification system can increase visibility, access to government contracting opportunities, and targeted support programs. This legislation provides data infrastructure to track female entrepreneurship trends and inform future policy decisions on economic development.

Potential points of contention

Cost and Implementation: The bill specifies use of "existing resources," raising questions about whether adequate funding and staffing exist to effectively operate and maintain the registry without compromising other departmental functions

Definition and Eligibility Criteria: The bill does not detail specific ownership percentage thresholds or operational control requirements needed to qualify as a "women-owned business," potentially creating disputes over certification standards

Government Procurement Mandates: Requirements for agencies to use the certification in procurement decisions may face resistance from those concerned about preferential contracting practices or potential legal challenges regarding equal opportunity procurement rules