The Puerto Rico Builders Association (ACPR) expressed objections to House Bill 1079, which seeks to modify protections for the island's karst region. ACPR member Patricio Martínez stated that while the association agrees with the need to review the 1999 law, it has concerns about the proposed changes, including the new definition of the karst region and the potential impact on aquifer recharge and protected species habitats.
Martínez argued that a general declaration without individual assessment and evidence would not protect property owners or the environment. The association opposes the expansion of landfills in karst areas and requests that any flexibility in the legislation be conditioned on an analysis of its impact on groundwater. The bill, authored by House President Carlos 'Johnny' Méndez Núñez, has sparked debate between environmentalists and scientists, who oppose it, and landowners and private citizens, who support it.
The ACPR urged the House to prohibit the expansion of existing landfills in karst areas.