Lawmaker proposes 35% discount on traffic fines

Rep. José Hernández Concepción

By The Star Staff

To assist in collecting administrative traffic fines, including those related to lacking a current inspection sticker, José “Cheito” Hernández Concepción, chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, has introduced a bill that offers a 35% discount on the principal amount owed, along with a 100% discount on interest, surcharges and penalties.

House Bill 602 also provides a 50% discount for drivers who enroll in a payment plan for traffic fines and a 35% discount for those associated with the Autoexpreso system.

“Many drivers have outstanding traffic debts, some of which date back years. This measure aims to facilitate the collection of these debts by creating a viable incentive plan for both drivers and the Financial Oversight and Management Board,” the San Juan District 3 lawmaker said. “As a result, the government will receive funds it previously did not expect. While we help drivers update their accounts, we also make it easier for them to obtain their license plates and the necessary insurance, which is essential.”

It has been nine years since the last incentive program was implemented.

“The shift from the vehicle license fee payment system (marbete) to a digital one has created challenges in processing fines, which must be addressed promptly, given the burdens faced by Puerto Ricans,” Hernández Concepción noted. “By approving this law, we recognize that the last similar incentive offered by the Legislative Assembly was in 2016, and it was both justified and successful at that time. We are confident that by 2025, this new mechanism will also prove to be effective.”

The incentive program would last for 90 calendar days. During this period, all drivers would be able to renew their licenses without any restrictions.