Para enmendar los artículos 2, 3, 4, 5, 8 y 9 de la Ley 292-1999, conocida como la “Ley para la Protección y Conservación de la Fisiografía Cársica de Puerto Rico” con el propósito de modernizar sus disposiciones, delimitar las facultades de la Junta de Planificación con respecto a esta política pública, crear definiciones y aclarar las disposiciones penales; clarificar el alcance de esta ley con respecto a los derechos constitucionales sobre el disfrute de la propiedad privada; establecer las facultades de reglamentación para hacer cumplir con las disposiciones de esta Ley; y para otros fines relacionados.”

2025-2028 Session

Puerto Rico modernizes karst protection law to clarify Planning Board authority, strengthen definitions, refine penalties, and balance environmental conservation with private property constitutional rights.

Referido a Comisión(es)

Legislative bill overview

Bill PC 1079 proposes amendments to Puerto Rico's 1999 Karst Physiography Protection and Conservation Law (Law 292-1999) to modernize regulations, clarify the Planning Board's authority, establish definitions, and refine penalties. The bill also seeks to clarify how the law relates to constitutional property rights and establish enforcement mechanisms through regulatory authority.

Why is this important

Puerto Rico's karst topography—characterized by sinkholes, caves, and underground water systems—is geologically unique and environmentally critical for groundwater and biodiversity. The modernization of this protective framework affects land development rights, environmental conservation, property owner obligations, and the balance between regulatory oversight and private property interests across significant portions of Puerto Rico's territory.

Potential points of contention

Property rights vs. environmental protection: The bill explicitly addresses constitutional property rights, suggesting tension between landowners seeking development flexibility and environmental advocates wanting stronger karst protections

Planning Board authority scope: Delimiting the Planning Board's powers may shift regulatory control, potentially to other agencies or reducing oversight depending on the amendments' specifics

Definitional clarity and enforcement: New definitions and penalty structures could increase compliance burdens on property owners or create ambiguity about what activities are restricted in karst zones

Retroactive application: Unclear whether amendments apply to existing permits, easements, or land use agreements, creating potential disputes