The Commission on Tourism of the Puerto Rico House of Representatives convened on October 3, 2025, to discuss Bill 605, introduced by Representative Ramos Rivera. This bill aims to enhance safety measures for short-term rental properties by requiring operators to provide crucial safety information to guests.

The proposed legislation mandates that property managers include a safety notice detailing nearby beaches, potential hazards such as rip currents, and emergency contact information. This notice must be available in both Spanish and English, and it should outline evacuation routes and shelters in the event of natural disasters like hurricanes or tsunamis.

During the meeting, several key representatives from the tourism sector were present, including Raúl Márquez from the Puerto Rico Tourism Company and Carla Marrero Bishop from the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources. Notably absent was a representative from Airbnb, which had previously expressed concerns about the bill. Airbnb argued that the requirements could impose excessive burdens on individual operators and lead to inconsistent information being provided to guests.

In response to these concerns, the commission plans to invite Airbnb for an executive hearing to discuss potential amendments to the bill. The goal is to find a balance that ensures visitor safety while addressing the operational challenges faced by short-term rental platforms.

The discussions highlighted the ongoing efforts to improve safety standards in Puerto Rico's tourism sector, particularly as the island continues to recover and adapt following recent natural disasters. The outcome of this bill could significantly impact how short-term rentals operate, emphasizing the importance of safety and preparedness in the tourism industry.

As the commission moves forward, the next steps will involve further dialogue with stakeholders, including Airbnb, to refine the legislation and ensure it meets the needs of both tourists and property operators.