The Senate approved Senate Bill 1190 on Monday in an ordinary session. Authored by alternate majority spokesperson Juan Oscar Morales Rodríguez, it would create the "Law for the Regulation of Lobbying in Puerto Rico." The measure sets a framework to promote transparency, prevent conflicts of interest and avoid the improper use of influence in government.
The bill bans lobbying without being registered in the Lobbyist Registry, administered by the Department of Justice (DJ). It requires disclosure of information about clients and business interests tied to lobbying activities and sets a two-year restriction period for certain former public officials. It also prohibits using third parties to evade post-public-service employment restrictions and provides an administrative fine of up to $100,000 for knowing violations.
In cases of intentional, repeated violations, the DJ may suspend a lobbyist’s registration for up to two years. The Senate also approved Senate Bill 1411 (A-135), an administration measure amending the Temporary Disability Benefits Act and the Chauffeurs and Other Employees Insurance Act to consolidate and standardize dates tied to taxes on wages paid to employees.
It responds to Article 33 of Law 65-2025 and seeks to simplify filing and payment processes for payroll-related tax obligations. The positive report of the Committee on Innovation, Reform and Appointments, chaired by Senate President Thomas Rivera Schatz, says the bill facilitates employer payroll compliance and reduces duplicated administrative procedures.