Para establecer y reglamentar un sistema de respuesta de llamadas de emergencias de potenciales agresores en busca de ayuda por situaciones de violencia doméstica, el cual se conocerá como “Línea CALMA”, adscrito a la Administración de Servicios de Salud Mental y Contra la Adicción; se enmienda la Sección 6, en sus incisos (f), (i) y (j) de la Ley Núm. 67-1993, según enmendada, conocida como “Ley de la Administración de Servicios de Salud Mental y Contra la Adicción”; se enmienda el Artículo 9, en sus incisos (e) y (g) de la Ley 20-2001, según enmendada, conocida como “Ley de la Oficina de la Procuradora de las Mujeres”; se añade un nuevo subinciso (6) al inciso (j) del Artículo 10, de la Ley 20-2001, según enmendada, conocida como “Ley de la Oficina de la Procuradora de las Mujeres”; y para otros fines relacionados.

2025-2028 Session

Creates "Línea CALMA," a confidential mental health hotline for potential domestic violence perpetrators seeking help to prevent abuse, administered by Puerto Rico's mental health authority.

Vista Pública: Salón de Audiencias #6

Legislative bill overview

Bill PC 1150 establishes "Línea CALMA," a dedicated emergency hotline for individuals who recognize themselves as potential domestic violence perpetrators and seek help to prevent violent behavior. The system would operate under Puerto Rico's Mental Health and Addiction Services Administration and coordinates with the Office of the Procuradora de las Mujeres (Women's Advocate Office) to provide intervention services.

Why is this important

Domestic violence remains a significant public health crisis in Puerto Rico, with high rates of intimate partner violence. This bill represents a preventative approach by targeting potential abusers before violence occurs, potentially reducing incidents and connecting individuals to mental health resources. It also reflects a policy shift toward early intervention rather than solely reactive enforcement.

Potential points of contention

Perpetrator confidentiality vs. victim safety: Critics may worry that calls to this line lack mandatory reporting requirements, potentially allowing dangerous individuals to avoid accountability while victims remain unprotected

Resource allocation concerns: Opponents may question whether government funds should prioritize intervention for perpetrators when victim support services (shelters, legal aid, counseling) may already face funding shortages

Effectiveness uncertainty: No clear metrics or evidence are cited regarding how similar programs prevent violence or whether perpetrators who call this line actually receive treatment or change behavior

Scope and eligibility gaps: The bill doesn't clearly define what "potential aggressors" means or establish protocols for individuals with histories of violence versus those seeking preventative help