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Bill

PS 397

“Para establecer la “Ley para garantizar el libre acceso a la libertad religiosa de pacientes y residentes adultos mayores, en hospitales e instituciones de cuidado públicas o privadas”; y para otros fines relacionados.”

2025-2028 Session

Withdrawn bill would have mandated religious freedom accommodations for elderly patients in Puerto Rico hospitals, affecting chaplaincy access and spiritual care services.

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Bill Summary · PS 397

Legislative bill overview

Bill PS 397 seeks to establish a law guaranteeing free access to religious freedom for elderly adult patients and residents in public and private hospitals and care institutions in Puerto Rico. The bill was introduced in March 2025 but was withdrawn by its author in June 2025, indicating the proposal did not advance through the legislative process.

Why is this important

Religious accommodation in healthcare settings affects vulnerable populations, particularly elderly patients who may have specific spiritual or religious needs during medical care or end-of-life situations. Such protections can influence hospital policies regarding chaplaincy services, dietary restrictions, prayer space access, and spiritual counseling availability for seniors in institutional care.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and scope of "religious freedom" — unclear whether protections extend to all belief systems equally, and how conflicts between religious practices and medical protocols would be resolved
  • Implementation costs — establishing religious accommodation infrastructure (chaplains, prayer rooms, dietary services) may impose financial burdens on healthcare institutions, particularly smaller private facilities
  • Balancing patient rights with institutional operations — defining limits on religious accommodation when practices interfere with hospital operations, infection control, or other patients' rights

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

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