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PC 197

Para establecer la “Ley contra la criminalización del sinhogarismo”; enmendar el inciso (c) del Artículo 156 de la Ley 146-2012, según enmendada; ordenar a la Comisión de Derechos Civiles realizar una campaña educativa sobre los derechos establecidos en esta Ley; y para otros fines relacionados.

2025-2028 Session

Puerto Rico bill decriminalizes homelessness by amending penalties and requires civil rights education on protections for unhoused individuals.

Referido a Comisión(es)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · PC 197

Legislative bill overview

Bill PC 197 seeks to decriminalize homelessness in Puerto Rico by amending Article 156 of Law 146-2012 and establishing protections against prosecuting individuals solely for being unhoused. The bill also mandates the Civil Rights Commission to conduct educational campaigns informing the public about these legal protections.

Why is this important

Homelessness criminalization laws have been criticized for penalizing poverty rather than addressing its root causes, often resulting in arrest cycles that worsen housing instability. This legislation could shift Puerto Rico's approach toward treating homelessness as a social issue requiring support services rather than criminal enforcement, potentially reducing jail populations and associated costs.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and scope: The bill's specific amendments to Article 156 are unclear from this summary; disagreement may arise over which activities remain prosecutable (e.g., disturbing public order) versus protected conduct (sleeping, sitting in public).
  • Municipal enforcement concerns: Local police and municipalities may resist restrictions on their ability to address public space issues, citing impacts on tourism, business districts, or neighborhood quality of life.
  • Resource allocation: Educational campaigns and potential shifts away from criminalization require alternative social services (shelters, mental health support, addiction treatment); unclear whether funding mechanisms are included.

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

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