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San Juan mayor says labor reform is “unconstitutional”

By on January 15, 2017

SAN JUAN — Mayor Carmen Yulín Cruz Soto condemned Sunday the House’s approval of the labor reform proposed by Gov. Ricardo Rosselló.

According to the Popular Democratic Party (PDP) leader, the Labor Transformation & Flexibility Act (H.B. 453) divides Puerto Rico’s workers in two classes, which she deemed “unconstitutional.” to this, she added that countries with more stable economies have stricter work policies in favor of employees.

(Juan J. Rodríguez/CB)

(Juan J. Rodríguez/CB)

“And watch out for the public sector, because after this law is approved the only thing it needs is an amendment saying that this also applies to workers under Act 45. To me, this sparks a disjointed beginning for an economic development plan,” she stated in an interview with CyberNews.

The capital’s mayor also argued that “revoking rights is never the route,” as she claimed that H.B. 453 aims to reduce vacations and sickness leaves, as well as eliminating other benefits in order to make the economy more competitive.

Likewise, Cruz Soto said she will look to reach a consensus among mayors to oppose amendments to the Puerto Rico Fiscal Agency and Financial Advisory Authority (AAFAF) proposed in Senate Bill 221.

The PDP leader said she will request a meeting with Rosselló in order to discuss some ideas so the municipalities don’t have to offer pre-payment for a year for finances with the nearly-vanquished Government Development Bank (GDB).

 

Says She’s Ready for ‘SanSe’ Festivities

On another hand, Cruz Soto assured she is ready to receive an anticipated 800,000 people during the San Sebastián festivities in Old San Juan, which will be celebrated January 19-22.

The municipal executive stated that the capital city has invested around $400,000 in preparations, which represents a $300,000 reduction from last year’s budget.

In regards to the event’s logistics, she indicated that a total 2,640 people will be working, including municipal employees, volunteers and contractors. The municipality will have the collaboration of 22 state agencies and six federal agencies. Apart from activating 650 municipal police officers and the marine unit, 800 state agencies and 225 security guards will join forces.

Cruz Soto informed that stages will conclude presentations at 11:00 p.m. from Thursday to Saturday, and at 10:00 p.m. on Sunday. Businesses will continue operating without restrictions until midnight from Thursday to Saturday, and 10:00 p.m. Sunday. The mayor affirmed penalty fines have been increased for businesses who infringe on closure regulations.

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