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PC 691

Para crear la “Ley de Seguridad en las Piscinas Residenciales en Puerto Rico”, a los fines de establecer como norma mínima de seguridad que, en toda propiedad residencial de uso privado o destinada a alquiler a corto plazo en Puerto Rico que cuente con piscina, y donde pernocte o resida uno (1) o más menores de seis (6) años de edad, se requiera la instalación de una valla de seguridad con alarma; ordenar al Instituto de Ciencias Forenses de Puerto Rico la elaboración de un protocolo de intervención en los casos en que un menor de seis (6) años fallezca por aparente ahogamiento en una piscina; y para otros fines relacionados.

2025-2028 Session

Puerto Rico requires residential pools to have security fencing with alarms where children under six live; mandates forensic protocol for drowning investigations.

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Bill Summary · PC 691

Legislative bill overview

Bill PC 691 mandates that all residential properties in Puerto Rico with swimming pools—whether privately owned or short-term rentals—must install security fencing with alarm systems if children under six years old reside or sleep there. The bill also requires the Institute of Forensic Sciences to develop an intervention protocol for drowning deaths of children under six in residential pools.

Why is this important

Drowning is a leading cause of unintentional death for young children in many jurisdictions. This legislation addresses a specific safety gap by establishing minimum protective infrastructure and standardized investigation procedures, potentially preventing deaths and creating consistent forensic documentation across the island.

Potential points of contention

  • Property rights and enforcement burden: Owners may resist mandatory installation costs and ongoing maintenance requirements; enforcement mechanisms and inspection authority are unclear
  • Rental market impact: Short-term rental operators could face significant compliance costs, potentially affecting property availability and affordability for tourism-dependent communities
  • Scope limitations: The bill only covers properties where children under six currently reside; it doesn't address properties where children visit occasionally or properties unaware of temporary child presence, leaving gaps in protection

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

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