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PS 846

“Para ordenar a la Autoridad de Energía Eléctrica (“AEE”) y/o al operador de la red eléctrica LUMA Energy, LLC. (“LUMA”) establecer un programa de amnistía parcial del veinticinco por ciento (25%) en la factura mensual del servicio de energía eléctrica para personas mayores de sesenta (60) años, sean personas pensionadas que reciben el seguro social, incluyendo aquellos con beneficios por discapacidad o cualquier tipo de pensión pública o privada cuyos ingresos mensuales no excedan los mil dólares ($1,000); y para otros fines relacionados.”

2025-2028 Session

Puerto Rico bill mandates utilities provide 25% monthly electricity bill discounts to seniors 60+ earning ≤$1,000/month from pensions/social security.

Comisión no recomienda aprobación de la medida
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · PS 846

Legislative bill overview

Bill PS 846 proposes establishing a 25% monthly bill discount program for Puerto Rico's elderly population (age 60+) who receive pensions or social security benefits with monthly incomes not exceeding $1,000. The Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (AEE) and/or the grid operator LUMA Energy would be required to administer this amnesty program.

Why is this important

Energy costs represent a significant burden for fixed-income seniors in Puerto Rico, where electricity rates are among the highest in the United States. This targeted subsidy could improve financial security for vulnerable elderly residents while potentially increasing utility collection rates by reducing disconnections among this demographic.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost allocation and funding source: The bill does not specify how utilities would absorb or recover the 25% revenue loss, raising questions about cost-shifting to other ratepayers
  • Income verification complexity: Determining eligibility requires robust income verification mechanisms; implementation could be administratively burdensome and prone to fraud
  • Scope limitations: The $1,000 monthly income threshold may exclude many struggling seniors just above this cutoff, and the age 60+ requirement is relatively young compared to typical "elderly" designations in other assistance programs
  • Broader rate structure concerns: This targeted relief doesn't address underlying high electricity costs in Puerto Rico or systemic issues with LUMA's operational performance and rates

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

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