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RCC 242

Para ordenar a la Oficina de Gerencia y Presupuesto (OGP), al Departamento de Hacienda y a la Autoridad de los Puertos de Puerto Rico que, en coordinación, identifiquen y asignen los fondos y recursos disponibles del Fondo de Emergencia o de cualquier otro fondo o fuente de recursos estatales aplicables, con el fin de garantizar la continuidad de los servicios federales esenciales en los aeropuertos del país, particularmente en el Aeropuerto Internacional Luis Muñoz Marín (SJU), el Aeropuerto Internacional Mercedita (PSE) y el Aeropuerto Internacional Rafael Hernández (BQN), ante el cierre del gobierno federal y sus efectos en los empleados federales que laboran en dichas instalaciones; y para otros fines relacionados.

2025-2028 Session

Puerto Rico directs state emergency funds to pay federal airport employees during U.S. government shutdowns, protecting air traffic operations at three major hubs.

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Bill Summary · RCC 242

Legislative bill overview

Bill RCC 242 directs Puerto Rico's Office of Management and Budget (OGP), Treasury Department, and Ports Authority to jointly identify and allocate emergency funds or other available state resources to maintain essential federal services at Puerto Rico's three major airports (Luis Muñoz Marín, Mercedita, and Rafael Hernández) during federal government shutdowns. The bill specifically aims to support federal employees working at these facilities who would otherwise go unpaid during closures.

Why is this important

Federal airport shutdowns directly impact Puerto Rico's economy, tourism, and cargo operations—all critical revenue sources for the island. Federal employees at these airports represent essential personnel (TSA, customs, air traffic control) whose absence could paralyze commercial air traffic. By using state funds as a temporary bridge during federal closures, the bill protects both the airport workforce and Puerto Rico's economic lifeline.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal sustainability: Using emergency funds to cover federal employee salaries sets a precedent and may deplete limited state reserves, raising questions about long-term viability if shutdowns become frequent
  • Federal responsibility: Critics may argue Puerto Rico should not subsidize federal operations, and doing so removes pressure on the U.S. Congress to prevent shutdowns
  • Fund allocation fairness: Directing emergency resources to federal workers may divert funds from other critical state services (healthcare, education, infrastructure) that lack similar backstop mechanisms

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

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