PDP legislators call for public hearings on minimum wage bill.

Popular Democratic Party Reps. Héctor Ferrer Santiago, left, and Domingo Torres García

By THE STAR STAFF

The Popular Democratic Party (PDP) minority leader in the island House of Representatives, Héctor Ferrer Santiago, announced on Tuesday that he has requested public hearings regarding House Bill 1115, which was returned to the Committee on Labor and Labor Affairs.

“This matter directly impacts the wallets and quality of life of thousands of working families,” Ferrer Santiago said in a written statement. “It cannot be addressed behind the people’s backs or in a hasty manner. It is indispensable to hear from all sectors and evaluate the complete information before making decisions.”

Ferrer Santiago sent an official communication, jointly with Rep. Domingo Torres García, the PDP alternate minority leader, to the committee chairman, Rep. Roberto López Román, calling for a broad and participatory legislative process.

He maintained that the hearings must allow for the participation of workers, union leaders and members of the Minimum Wage Evaluation Commission before the House makes a determination regarding the measure.

Torres García noted that during the previous process, requests for information went unanswered; therefore, in his view, it is appropriate to utilize the available time to demand that data and ensure a responsible discussion.

“It is important that commitments be honored and that a fair, orderly, and participatory process be carried out,” Torres García said. “Puerto Rico deserves transparency and respect.”