Puerto Rico Senate passes bills to expand internet access, support local agriculture
The Puerto Rico Senate has passed three measures aimed at addressing the island’s digital divide and supporting its agricultural sector, including a bill to provide wireless internet access in public housing and legislation offering tax incentives for the use of idle farmland.
All three initiatives were introduced by Sen. Jeison Rosa-Ramos of the New Progressive Party and received final approval this week.
Expanding digital access
Senate Bill 523 amends the Puerto Rico Public Housing Administration Organic Act to make wireless internet access a required part of modernization efforts in public housing projects. The measure establishes as public policy the reduction of inequality in access to technology and education.
“This law is a vital step toward closing the digital divide that continues to affect many Puerto Ricans,” Rosa-Ramos said in a statement. “By ensuring internet access in public housing, we empower thousands with essential tools for education, knowledge and social development.”
Encouraging farmland use
Senate Bill 291, titled the Use of Agricultural Lands Incentive Act, creates tax exemptions for income earned from leasing agricultural land to bona fide farmers. The bill is intended to combat the island’s heavy reliance on imported food — estimated at about 85% — and to revive agricultural productivity.
“Agriculture is a historic and cultural cornerstone of our economy but faces significant challenges,” Rosa-Ramos said. “This bill is crucial to maximizing agricultural land use, enhancing food security, generating rural jobs and stimulating the local economy.”
Investigating availability
Senate Resolution 163 authorizes the Senate Agriculture Committee, chaired by Rosa-Ramos, to investigate the current inventory of farms managed by the Land Authority under the Department of Agriculture. The resolution directs the committee to assess each farm’s location, use, condition and potential availability for agricultural development.
“To achieve food self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on imports, it is essential to identify opportunities for new farmers to utilize government-held lands,” the senator said. “This research will support the emergence of a new generation of farmers and encourage consumption of locally grown products. Investing in local agriculture means investing in Puerto Rico’s economy, health and sustainability.”
The measures form part of broader legislative efforts to improve infrastructure and foster self-reliance through technology and agriculture.
