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PS 321

Para enmendar los Artículos 1.01, 1.02, 2.01, 2.02, 2.03, 2.04, 2.05, 2.06, 2.07, 2.08, 2.11, 2.13, 2.14, 3.01 y 4.01 de la Ley 158-2015, según enmendada, conocida como “Ley de la Defensoría de las Personas con Impedimentos del Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico” a los fines de adoptar el término de “diversidad funcional” y sustituir la palabra “impedimentos” o “impedidos”; conceptos que resultan discriminatorios para esa población; y para otros fines relacionados.

2025-2028 Session

Puerto Rico bill replaces "disability" terminology with "functional diversity" in disability rights law to reduce stigmatizing language, though Commission rejected approval as of 2025.

Comisión no recomienda aprobación de la medida
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Bill Summary · PS 321

Legislative bill overview

Bill PS 321 proposes amending Puerto Rico's Law 158-2015 (the Ombudsperson Law for Persons with Disabilities) to replace the term "impedimentos" (impediments/disabilities) with "diversidad funcional" (functional diversity) throughout the legislation. The bill aims to eliminate language deemed discriminatory toward people with disabilities by adopting more inclusive terminology.

Why is this important

Language shapes how society perceives and treats marginalized groups. Terminology changes in official legislation can influence public discourse, reduce stigma, and affirm the dignity of people with disabilities. Puerto Rico's adoption of "functional diversity" aligns with disability rights movements in other Spanish-speaking countries that reject deficit-focused language.

Potential points of contention

  • Practical implementation concerns: Critics may argue that terminology changes alone don't address systemic barriers or improve actual services and protections for people with disabilities; resources spent on legislative amendments might be better directed toward program funding.
  • Definitional clarity: "Functional diversity" is broader and less legally precise than "impedimentos," potentially creating ambiguity about who qualifies for protections, services, and legal accommodations under the law.
  • International alignment: Some may view the change as unnecessary standardization that doesn't reflect Puerto Rico's specific legal and cultural context, or conversely, others may see it as overdue alignment with international human rights standards.

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

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