House approves bill to create Connecticut–Puerto Rico Trade Commission

The Connecticut House accepted and passed House Bill 5008 to create a 23‑member Connecticut–Puerto Rico Trade Commission. Proponents said the commission would advance bilateral trade and investment, promote business and academic exchanges, and help connect Connecticut firms to opportunities in Puerto Rico.

Representative Messker, the Commerce Committee chair, said the bill mirrors the existing Connecticut–Ireland Trade Commission language and urged adoption, citing Connecticut’s significant Puerto Rican population and longstanding business relationships with firms that operate in Puerto Rico. “Advancing bilateral trade between Connecticut and Puerto Rico is not just good for our residents but it's good for the business of Connecticut which is the business of the commerce committee,” Messker said.

Several members spoke in support, noting committee unanimity and anticipated benefits for manufacturing, tourism, education, clean energy and workforce development. Representative Rosario emphasized economic collaboration and sectoral opportunities; Representative Reyes highlighted workforce benefits in nursing and engineering and university partnerships with institutions such as the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez.

The clerk recorded the roll‑call tally for House Bill 5008 as 141 yes, 0 no, with 10 absent/not voting. The bill passed and will be transmitted for further processing.

Supporters said the commission would open new market access channels and strengthen cultural and academic ties; the debate on the floor did not record substantial opposition.