In Puerto Rico, the Association of Economists of Puerto Rico (AEPR) has urged Governor Jenniffer González to complete the pending appointments to the Minimum Wage Evaluation Commission with urgency. The AEPR also demands that resources be allocated to enable the commission to fulfill its responsibilities. After a recent resignation, the commission lacks the necessary quorum to continue its work formally.
According to Dr. Héctor Tavárez, AEPR president, the commission’s paralysis affects its ability to evaluate Puerto Rico’s minimum wage policy, particularly during times of high cost of living. A recent report found that 40.8% of adults face some degree of food insecurity, and 51.9% reported difficulties in obtaining nutritious food. The AEPR emphasizes that a functional commission is crucial for informed decision-making on wage policy, and that it requires sufficient resources to investigate, analyze, and present recommendations.
Tavárez stressed that the commission’s work should be based on continuous data collection, sectoral analysis, and impact evaluation.