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PC 442

Para enmendar el Artículo 4 de la Ley Núm. 17-2004, mejor conocida como la “Ley de la Reserva Marina Tres Palmas a los fines de incluir como parte de la Reserva Marina la franja de terreno obtenida mediante la sentencia del caso Autoridad de Carreteras y Transportación v. Sucesión Francisco Levy Cumpiano (KEF-2006-0571) propiedad de la Autoridad de Carreteras; disponer la aplicabilidad de las disposiciones que regulan la Reserva Marina a la franja de terreno; y para otros fines.

2025-2028 Session

Puerto Rico expands Tres Palmas Marine Reserve to include state-owned land parcel from 2006 court settlement, extending all marine reserve protections and regulations to the newly incorporated territory.

Reunión Ejecutiva: Oficina de la Comisión
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Bill Summary · PC 442

Legislative bill overview

Bill PC 442 seeks to amend Puerto Rico's Tres Palmas Marine Reserve law (Law 17-2004) to incorporate a strip of land acquired by the Department of Transportation and Public Works through a 2006 court settlement into the marine reserve's boundaries and regulatory framework. The amendment would extend all marine reserve protections and regulations to this newly incorporated terrestrial parcel.

Why is this important

The Tres Palmas Marine Reserve is one of Puerto Rico's most ecologically significant protected areas, known for coral reefs and marine biodiversity. Incorporating additional land into the reserve could strengthen environmental protections in the region, though it also clarifies government land management responsibilities and may affect existing or future land-use plans for the contested property.

Potential points of contention

  • Property rights and land use: The strip of land came through litigation; clarifying its incorporation into the reserve may restrict future development or commercial use by the Department of Transportation and Public Works
  • Scope of marine reserve regulations: Applying marine reserve rules to terrestrial land raises questions about which specific restrictions apply to dry land versus water, and enforcement mechanisms
  • Stakeholder consultation: No clear indication of input from local communities, businesses, or other agencies who may be affected by expanded reserve boundaries and their associated restrictions

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

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