On April 29, 2024, the Senate's Commission on Education, Tourism, and Culture convened to discuss the pressing need for regulations surrounding short-term rentals in Puerto Rico. The meeting highlighted the urgent call for legislative action to protect the right to housing and mitigate the negative impacts of these rentals on local communities.

Central to the discussions was Project 1557, which aims to establish a public policy recognizing housing as a fundamental right. Advocates emphasized the importance of preserving community integrity, historical zones, and affordable housing. They argued that while property rights are constitutionally protected, this does not preclude the government from enacting laws that safeguard public welfare, including health and safety.

The commission heard testimonies from various stakeholders, including community leaders and legal experts, who underscored the commercial nature of short-term rentals. They argued that these rentals should be regulated as businesses, given their significant impact on local housing markets and community dynamics. The testimony pointed out that a substantial percentage of short-term rental units are used exclusively for tourism, which exacerbates housing shortages for residents.

Several recommendations emerged from the meeting, including the need for municipalities to have the authority to regulate short-term rentals based on local conditions. This would involve community participation in decision-making processes to ensure that regulations reflect the unique needs of each area. The proposed legislation also includes provisions for limiting the number of rental units per host and establishing clear guidelines for compliance and enforcement.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the necessity of balancing economic opportunities from tourism with the rights of residents to secure affordable housing. The commission plans to refine Project 1557 further, incorporating feedback from community members and stakeholders to create a comprehensive regulatory framework that addresses the complexities of short-term rentals in Puerto Rico. The anticipated next steps include drafting amendments to the project and conducting further public consultations to ensure that all voices are heard in this critical issue.