House approves eliminating security details for convicted ex-governors

By THE STAR STAFF

The Puerto Rico House of Representatives unanimously approved, with 44 votes, Senate Bill 881 on Monday to eliminate security details for former governors and former officials convicted of felonies or misdemeanors, as well as for gubernatorial and resident commissioner candidates during the campaign period.

The bill’s statement of purpose establishes that the measure responds to principles of fiscal responsibility and the efficient use of the resources of the Puerto Rico Police Department, while also protecting the physical integrity of those who hold or have held public office.

During the debate, Rep. Lourdes Ramos Rivera stated: “I am not defending [former governor] Wanda Vázquez, but I do want the same standard to apply to everyone who is convicted, because corruption here has no party affiliation.”

Rep. Ramón Torres Cruz maintained that the measure “is fair and necessary.” He added that, in the case of Vázquez Garced, “there was a conviction, there is a pardon, but even so, she does not deserve the security detail.”

Rep. Denis Márquez said he supported the measure with the understanding that the public policy “goes beyond the pardon granted by the President of the United States.”

The House adjourned its legislative session until Tuesday, Jan. 27, at 11 a.m., when it will hold a special session to honor cervical cancer survivors.