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PC 215

Para enmendar el Artículo 15 de la Ley Núm. 104 del 29 de junio de 1955, según enmendada, conocida como “Ley de Reclamaciones y Demandas contra el Estado”, a fin de disponer que el Estado, no vendrá obligado a realizar el pago por sentencias que recaigan sobre funcionarios en su carácter personal por actos que constituyan violación de derechos civiles por discrimen político; y para otros fines relacionados.

2025-2028 Session

Puerto Rico bill exempts the State from paying court-ordered damages against officials for political discrimination civil rights violations when sued personally.

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Bill Summary · PC 215

Legislative bill overview

Bill PC 215 proposes to amend Article 15 of Law 104 (1955), known as the "Law of Claims and Demands against the State," to exempt the State from paying damages awarded in court sentences against government officials when those officials are sued in their personal capacity for civil rights violations based on political discrimination.

Why is this important

This bill directly affects accountability mechanisms for government employees accused of discriminatory conduct. It would limit the State's financial liability for damages when officials allegedly violate citizens' civil rights through political discrimination, potentially shifting financial responsibility entirely to individual officials and reducing deterrents against such behavior.

Potential points of contention

  • Victim compensation: Citizens harmed by political discrimination could face difficulty collecting damages if individual officials lack sufficient personal assets, leaving victims without remedy despite court-ordered compensation.
  • Official accountability: Removing state liability may reduce institutional oversight and incentives for government agencies to prevent discriminatory practices by their employees.
  • Definition clarity: The bill does not precisely define "political discrimination" or distinguish between actions taken in official versus personal capacity, creating ambiguity in application.
  • Constitutional concerns: Changes to liability frameworks may raise questions about due process and equal protection rights under Puerto Rico's constitution.

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

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