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Bill

PS 995

Para enmendar la Sección 16 de la Ley 67-1993, según enmendada, conocida como la “Ley de la Administración de Servicios de Salud Mental y Contra la Adicción”, a los fines a los fines de robustecer el proceso de licenciamiento de las instituciones proveedoras de servicios de salud mental y contra la adicción, y para otros fines relacionados.

2025-2028 Session

Puerto Rico strengthens mental health and addiction service provider licensing requirements to improve regulatory oversight, patient safety, and institutional accountability standards.

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Bill Summary · PS 995

Legislative bill overview

Bill PS 995 proposes amendments to Section 16 of Puerto Rico's Law 67-1993 (Mental Health and Addiction Services Administration Law) to strengthen and improve the licensing process for institutions providing mental health and addiction treatment services. The bill aims to establish more robust regulatory standards and procedures for these healthcare providers operating in Puerto Rico.

Why is this important

Mental health and addiction services are critical public health infrastructure, and strengthened licensing requirements directly impact service quality, patient safety, and institutional accountability. Improved regulatory oversight can prevent fraud, ensure trained personnel, maintain facility standards, and build public confidence in the mental health treatment system across Puerto Rico.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Stricter licensing requirements may impose significant compliance expenses on smaller providers, potentially reducing service availability in underserved areas
  • Regulatory burden vs. access: Enhanced bureaucratic processes could delay licensure approvals and limit the number of operational facilities, particularly affecting rural or low-income communities
  • Definition of standards: The bill's specifics on what constitutes "robust" licensing criteria are unclear; disagreement may arise over appropriate performance metrics, staff qualifications, and facility requirements

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

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