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Bill

RS 101

Para que el Senado de Puerto Rico encargue a la Oficina de Presupuesto de la Asamblea Legislativa (OPAL), un estudio sobre el impacto económico que los eventos y desastres naturales han tenido sobre Puerto Rico por los pasados 15 años, con particular atención en la valoración de daños y la inversión pública dirigida a recuperación y mitigación de estos, proveniente tanto del gobierno local, como del gobierno federal; y para otros fines relacionados.

2025-2028 Session

Puerto Rico Senate orders budget office to study economic damage from natural disasters over 15 years and track recovery investment from local and federal sources.

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Bill Summary · RS 101

Legislative bill overview

Bill RS 101 directs Puerto Rico's Legislative Assembly Budget Office (OPAL) to conduct a comprehensive study on the economic impact of natural events and disasters on Puerto Rico over the past 15 years. The study will assess damage valuations and track public investment in recovery and mitigation efforts from both local and federal government sources.

Why is this important

Puerto Rico has experienced multiple major disasters (Hurricanes María and Irma in 2017, earthquakes in 2020, and others) that have caused significant economic disruption. Understanding the cumulative financial impact and how recovery funds were allocated can inform future disaster preparedness, budget planning, and federal-local coordination strategies for a hurricane-prone territory with limited fiscal resources.

Potential points of contention

  • Study scope and methodology: Defining what constitutes "natural events and disasters" and establishing consistent damage valuation methods across diverse incidents and time periods may prove technically challenging
  • Data availability and accuracy: Compiling complete federal and local expenditure records over 15 years could reveal gaps in documentation or disagreements between government agencies about spending figures
  • Resource allocation: The study requires OPAL staff time and resources; critics may question whether commissioning this study is the best use of limited budget office capacity versus other legislative priorities

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

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