Puerto Rico hearing examines proposed law to require propeller guards on recreational boats

The House Commission on Natural Resources on May 14, 2025, heard testimony and questions about Proyecto de la Cámara 434, a measure to amend Law 430 of 2000 (the Navigation and Aquatic Safety Act) to require propeller guards on covered vessels, set exemptions and establish administrative fines. Testimony came from the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DRNA) and representatives of the Department of Public Safety, including maritime enforcement units.

Committee members said the bill aims to reduce human injuries and harm to marine wildlife by requiring devices that surround a vessel’s propeller. DRNA officials told the commission that propeller guards can prevent injuries to bathers and protect species such as manatees and sea turtles; they also noted technical and operational trade-offs, including reduced speed and potential impacts on engine efficiency.

Luis Antonio Márquez Ruiz, Commissioner of Navigation at the DRNA, said the agency has recorded propeller-impact incidents but does not currently maintain a consolidated dataset on annual counts. The committee asked…