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PC 553

Para crear la “Ley de Adaptación y Deslinde Costero en Respuesta a la Crisis Climática”; clarificar la vigencia de los deslindes; establecer la inclusión de los efectos de la crisis climática como el aumento del nivel del mar y los mapas de exposición a inundaciones con marea alta para apoyar la planificación costera a largo plazo; y para decretar otras disposiciones complementarias.”

2025-2028 Session

Puerto Rico law clarifying coastal property boundaries and integrating climate change impacts (sea-level rise, flood maps) into long-term coastal planning and development regulations.

Referido a Comisión(es)
0
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Bill Summary · PC 553

Legislative bill overview

Bill PC 553 establishes a "Coastal Adaptation and Boundary Clarification Law in Response to Climate Crisis" for Puerto Rico. It aims to clarify the legal validity of coastal property boundaries (deslindes) and integrate climate change projections—particularly sea-level rise and high-tide flood maps—into long-term coastal planning and development regulations.

Why is this important

Puerto Rico faces significant coastal vulnerability due to rising sea levels and increased flooding, threatening infrastructure, property values, and communities. Clarifying boundary laws while incorporating climate science into planning could prevent costly disputes, guide sustainable development, and help protect both public lands and private property rights during environmental transitions.

Potential points of contention

  • Property rights vs. public safety: Landowners may resist boundary changes or restrictions based on climate projections, fearing reduced property values or limited development rights
  • Scientific uncertainty in projections: Disagreement over which sea-level rise scenarios and flood models to use as legal baselines, and how frequently these should be updated
  • Implementation costs and timelines: Unclear who bears costs for remapping, property assessments, and relocation assistance for affected residents in vulnerable coastal areas
  • Jurisdictional conflicts: Potential overlap between municipal, territorial, and federal authorities in enforcing new coastal boundaries and land-use restrictions

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

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