Puerto Rico Governor Jenniffer González Colón announced the signing of two legislative measures into law on Monday. The measures, Senate Projects 318 and 372, aim to improve the island's response to public health emergencies and strengthen government procurement processes.
Senate Project 318, authored by Senator Juan Oscar Morales Rodríguez and co-authored by Senator Rafael Santos Ortiz, amends the 1912 Health Department Law to allow the Health Secretary to issue provisional licenses to health professionals during public health emergencies. Senate Project 372, authored by Senator Carmelo Ríos, amends the General Services Administration Law to centralize government purchases and promote transparency in the bidding process.
The new laws define 'participating bidder' and establish clear rules for auctions, ensuring fairness and efficiency in government contracting. Governor González Colón stated that these measures will help protect the health and well-being of the people of Puerto Rico and promote good governance.