PDP outlines legislative agenda for new session

The minority Popular Democratic Party legislative delegation reiterated the need for tangible solutions to Puerto Rico’s ongoing challenges.

By The Star Staff

The Popular Democratic Party (PDP) minority leaders in the island House of Representatives and Senate, Héctor Ferrer Santiago and Luis Javier Hernández Ortiz, respectively, along with their delegations outlined on Monday their legislative agenda as the year’s second session commenced.

The PDP leaders highlighted their commitment to both oversight and proactive solutions beyond mere identification of issues.

Ferrer and Hernández conveyed their approach of transitioning from problem identification to proposing practical, actionable solutions that provide significant relief. They acknowledged the challenges posed by the New Progressive Party (NPP) parliamentary majority, but said they remain steadfast in their advocacy.

The key legislative priorities presented by the PDP include:

* Energy crisis: The PDP opposes increases in electricity bills and advocates for better support for residential customers. They are committed to ensuring the government fulfills its promise to cancel the LUMA Energy contract.

* Education: There is a strong emphasis on supporting special education initiatives and addressing the needs of students with disabilities.

* Decentralization and municipal strengthening: The PDP seeks to promote the transfer of services and resources to municipalities, addressing existing state inadequacies.

* Real access to healthcare: The party aims to introduce legislation that facilitates Puerto Rico’s inclusion in federal programs like Supplemental Security Income (SSI), in collaboration with the efforts of the Resident Commissioner.

* Public safety: The PDP advocates for the restructuring of security agencies and the removal of unnecessary bureaucratic layers to enhance public safety.

* Affordable housing: Developing initiatives to fulfill the housing needs of Puerto Rican families is a priority.

Ferrer and Hernández also reflected on previous legislative sessions, noting that important measures, such as the cancellation of the LUMA contract, the elimination of the Department of Public Safety and the establishment of a new Anti-Corruption Code, were obstructed by the NPP majority. They said had those measures been approved, Puerto Rico might be in a more favorable position today.

Looking forward, the PDP is calling for immediate action on critical issues, including the cancellation of the LUMA contract, permit and tax reforms, and the efficient utilization of federal funds. They expressed concern about the current administration.

“The governor has not complied,” they said. “Her administration is in disarray, failing in even the most basic areas.”

The minority party reiterated the need for tangible solutions to Puerto Rico’s ongoing challenges.