Resident Commissioner Pablo José Hernández Requests Formal Evaluation of Proposal Affecting Opportunity Zones in Puerto Rico

WASHINGTON, D.C. – As part of his commitment to good governance and evidence-based decision-making, Resident Commissioner Pablo José Hernández formally requested that the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) evaluate the fiscal and economic impact of a Senate proposal that would eliminate the full designation of Opportunity Zones in Puerto Rico.
The measure, contained in Section 70421 of the Senate Finance Committee’s reconciliation bill, would revoke the special provision that automatically designated all low-income communities on the island as Opportunity Zones following Hurricane María.
In his request, the Resident Commissioner asked the JCT to estimate both the fiscal consequences of eliminating the measure and the potential reduction in the number of eligible zones if Puerto Rico were required to undergo a new designation process.
“This is a matter of good and responsible governance,” said Hernández. “Before changing a policy like this, Congress should understand its effects.”
The Resident Commissioner reiterated his willingness to collaborate with the Governor to protect this provision and expressed optimism that the Government of Puerto Rico can provide data to advocate against the measure if it proves harmful to the Island. “Last week, we contacted the Puerto Rico Federal Affairs Administration in Washington and remain willing to work together for Puerto Rico’s benefit. The Government is best positioned to provide the necessary information to defend measures like this.”
This action exemplifies the Resident Commissioner’s approach: to govern with integrity, accountability, and practical solutions. Since his first day in Washington, Hernández has advocated for policies that promote long-term economic development and equitable access to federal programs.
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