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Rep. Axel “Chino” Roque Gracia announced on Monday the filing of House Bill 301, titled the “Relief Act for the Payment of Deposits for Connections to the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA).”
The measure aims to provide better access to drinking water and sanitary sewer services by establishing a more accessible payment system for new PRASA clients.
“I frequently hear the concerns of many families who, due to the high cost of living, are forced to delay connecting to water services because they cannot afford to pay the full deposit upfront,” the New Progressive Party legislator said. “With this measure, we are removing an economic barrier and promoting social justice. No one should be denied access to water for financial reasons.”
The proposed legislation will allow all new clients of the public corporation to pay their deposit or bond required to initiate service in monthly installments of either three or six months, thus lessening the financial burden of the initial payment. The bill includes amendments to Act No. 40 of 1945 (Puerto Rico Water and Sewer Law) and introduces a new subsection to Section 4. The latter amendment mandates that PRASA permit new customers to opt for a prorated deposit payment schedule while upholding their right to essential services. Furthermore, PRASA will have a maximum of six months to revise Regulation 8901 and any other relevant regulations to comply with the new public policy, and any conflicting regulatory provisions will be automatically repealed.
“This bill strikes a fair balance; while we make access to an essential service easier, we do not jeopardize the finances of PRASA,” Roque Gracia said. “We provide people the opportunity to fulfill their responsibilities in a more accessible and realistic way. We are not giving anything away; we are offering a fair opportunity. We recognize that PRASA is vital for our country, but we also understand that many Puerto Rican families struggle to meet their basic expenses. This initiative supports both the citizens and the public corporation.”
Once approved, House Bill 301 will take effect immediately and will benefit thousands of island residents who require access to drinking water and sewage services for their homes and businesses.
