The U.S. Capitol
By THE STAR STAFF
Puerto Rico Gov. Pedro Pierluisi Urrutia asked the congressional leadership in Washington earlier this week to approve bills directly affecting the well-being of the 3.2 million American citizens living on the island over the next two years.
“Before the 118th Congress begins, I hope to work with you in key areas specifically to strengthen the economy of Puerto Rico for the benefit of the 3.2 million American citizens who reside on our island,” the governor said in a letter to Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.), and to the minority leaders, Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.). “Therefore, for us to continue advancing, I ask you for your collaboration and support in these congressional initiatives that are essential for Puerto Rico to continue on the path of progress and economic recovery.”
Pierluisi requested a bill to help Puerto Rico transition from the Nutrition Assistance Program to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and the Medicare Advantage Program rates.
He also asked lawmakers to increase security resources to combat drug trafficking, to adjust federal Earned Income Tax Credit contributions, and to retroactively reauthorize full rum tax refunds.
Likewise, the governor called for, through legislation, waivers to the Jones Act for fuel transportation in times of emergency.
He also asked for legislation allowing Puerto Rico citizens access to the Supplemental Security Income program and for approval of a status bill.