Senate to address domestic violence law amendments

Senate President Thomas Rivera Schatz

By The Star Staff

The Puerto Rico Legislature, under the governance of the majority New Progressive Party, has officially opened its second yearly session, directing its focus toward significant amendments to existing domestic violence laws on its first day.

At the forefront of the discussions is Senate Bill (SB) 35, authored by Senate President Thomas Rivera Schatz. The bill proposes a critical procedural amendment that would mandate that jury verdicts in domestic violence-related cases be unanimous, thereby reinforcing the weight of collective decision-making in the judicial process.

In a move aimed at protecting vulnerable populations, senators will also deliberate on an amendment to the Penal Code designed to exempt victims of human trafficking from facing criminal charges. The provision acknowledges that any illegal actions taken by those victims were often coerced by their dire circumstances and victimization.

Another significant piece of legislation under consideration is SB 84, which seeks to modernize and enhance the procedures surrounding restraining orders. The bill proposes the integration of electronic methods for certifying the service of such orders, as well as for efficiently obtaining and maintaining up-to-date contact information for all parties involved. The modernization aims to streamline the process and ensure better compliance with protection measures.

Senators will further dive into a proposal by Sen. Ada Alvarez Conde that seeks to amend the Law for the Prevention of Abuse, Preservation of Family Unity, and the Safety, Well-being, and Protection of Minors. The amendment would establish a “lasting restraining order” in cases of sexual abuse against minors, ensuring that such protection remains in place until the victim reaches the age of 18, thereby providing long-term security for vulnerable children and teenagers.

SB 332, meanwhile, introduced by Sen. Jamie Barlucea Rodriguez, aims to tackle the grave issue of elder abuse by stiffening penalties for those who abuse or mistreat senior citizens and the elderly. The proposed legislative change underscores the Legislature’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of the island’s elderly population.

Sen. Roxanna Soto Aguilú is championing SB 41, which proposes a significant shift in judicial mandates by eliminating the court’s discretion under certain circumstances. The bill would require that individuals against whom a restraining order is issued must undergo a re-education and retraining program focused on addressing and correcting aggressive behavior in intimate relationships. The initiative is intended to foster accountability and encourage healthier interactions.

Another proposal by Álvarez Conde aims to amend the “Puerto Rico Anti-Revenge Pornography Act.” The amendment would extend the law’s protections by criminalizing the dissemination and publication of explicit intimate or sexual material generated through artificial intelligence, thereby targeting emerging threats to privacy and personal dignity in the digital age.