Puerto Rico Senate Approves Amendment to Fund Police Pensions through Gambling Revenue

This decision comes as a part of a broader strategy to secure financial support for retired law enforcement officers through regulated gambling activities.

Ensuring Effective Implementation

Senate President José Luis Dalmau Santiago spearheaded the initiative, highlighting the necessity of revising the existing regulation to address previous inconsistencies and potential legal challenges.

The revised regulation, following modifications by the Gaming Commission, must undergo a 45-day review by the Legislative Assembly to ensure its effective implementation without legal obstructions.

Financial Relief for Retired Officers

This move aligns with ongoing efforts to provide substantial financial relief to retired police officers. In March 2023, the House of Representatives approved Project 1593, guaranteeing retired officers a minimum of 50% of their active-duty income through the new pension scheme funded by these gambling revenues.

Further backing this initiative, Governor Pedro R. Pierluisi recently signed House Bill 1593 into Law 42-2024, which not only increased the annual fees for gambling machine licenses and renewals but also expanded operational capacities and potential earnings from these machines.

This law also designates a significant portion of gambling revenue to support critical municipal health services, marking a comprehensive approach to the allocation of funds generated from gambling operations.