Governor signs 4 Senate bills addressing safety, justice, victims’ rights

Gov. Jenniffer González Colón

By THE STAR STAFF

Gov. Jenniffer González Colón has signed into law four Senate bills, enacting measures that strengthen navigation safety laws, clarify forensic investigation procedures, protect religious activities, and recognize human trafficking victims.

The new laws, all sponsored by Senate President Thomas Rivera Schatz and co-authored by various legislators, amend existing statutes to close legal gaps and align Puerto Rico’s legal framework with contemporary standards.

Senate Bill 37, now Law 140-2025, updates the “Navigation and Water Safety Law of Puerto Rico” (Law 430-2000) to reflect the fixed sentencing system established by the 2012 Penal Code. The amendments impose a three-year prison term for causing bodily injury while operating a vessel and clarify that deaths resulting from such incidents will be prosecuted under the Penal Code. Legislators said the changes eliminate inconsistencies that hinder rehabilitation and reintegration goals.

Senate Bill 45, enacted as Law 141-2025, ensures that individuals exploited through human trafficking are treated as victims rather than criminals. The law excludes criminal liability for offenses committed as a direct consequence of victimization, aiming to reduce fear of prosecution and encourage victims to seek protection and justice.

“This measure reflects Puerto Rico’s commitment to combating modern slavery,” the bill’s authors stated.

Senate Bill 48, now Act 142-2025, amends the law that created the Puerto Rico Institute of Forensic Sciences. It removes investigative powers previously granted to judges, reaffirming that prosecutors hold sole authority to direct investigations and authorize the removal of corpses. The change seeks to eliminate confusion and streamline forensic procedures.

Senate Bill 503, signed as Law 143-2025, adds Article 179(A) to the Penal Code, making it a misdemeanor to obstruct or interrupt religious activities through force, intimidation, or violence. Repeat offenders will face imprisonment. Lawmakers emphasized that the measure safeguards constitutional rights to worship without interference.

The four laws reflect a broad legislative effort to enhance public safety, uphold victims’ rights, and ensure clarity in Puerto Rico’s legal system, legislators said.