‘Johnny’ Méndez says Oversight Board exit moves closer after second consecutive certified budget

By THE STAR STAFF

House Speaker Carlos “Johnny” Méndez said the Financial Oversight and Management Board’s certification of Puerto Rico’s fiscal year 2026-2027 consolidated budget marks another step toward the federal entity’s eventual departure from the island.

“The Board’s approval of the government’s consolidated budget, the second consecutive certification in two years, demonstrates our commitment to meeting the established fiscal requirements,” Méndez said. “We now need two more balanced, certified budgets to complete the requirement of four consecutive approved budgets.”

He thanked the House Finance Committee, its technical staff, lawmakers who supported the spending plan, and the Executive Branch and Senate for their work in achieving the certification.

The House Finance Committee held 14 public hearings with more than 45 government entities, representing about 85% of the government’s budget, during its review of the spending plan, which takes effect July 1.

The consolidated budget totals $33.57 billion, including $13.18 billion from the General Fund.

In a letter sent Friday to Gov. Jenniffer González Colón, Oversight Board Executive Director Robert Mujica stated that the board had reviewed the budget approved by the Legislative Assembly on June 25 and determined it is consistent with the Second Revised 2024 Fiscal Plan under the PROMESA law.