House passes bill addressing age discrimination language; critics cite drafting errors and lack of hearings

The Puerto Rico House approved House Bill 124 on May 12, 2025, a measure to add provisions addressing ageism and to establish related duties for the school community; members debated whether the bill had sufficient committee review and correct statutory references.

Representative Jorge Figueroa Acevedo said the body was not opposed to the substance but criticized the process and specific drafting: “No nos oponemos a ningún derecho civil, no nos oponemos a este proyecto, pero debió celebrarse en vista públicas.” He and other members asked for the measure to be returned to committee to correct a declaratory section that does not explicitly state which law is being amended.

Why it matters: the bill is intended to expand protections and awareness regarding discrimination by age within school policy and the education system. Critics said the bill’s text as filed leaves unclear which statutory provisions would change, creating legal uncertainty if enacted.

Outcome and procedure: The bill’s proponents argued the chamber’s calendar and amendment procedures permitted consideration; the House approved the measure on the floor as presented (final recorded floor vote for this item was not specified in the transcript). Members who raised drafting concerns asked for technical corrections and for committee action to be reopened where needed.

Provenance: the bill appeared on the special calendar and drew floor debate on process and textual correctness before final approval on May 12, 2025.