Lawmakers press fiscal agencies on cost and PROMESA limits for pension hike

During the hearing on PC 13‑99, members repeatedly asked how a permanent raise to $1,000 could be funded without violating the commonwealth's fiscal plan and the order of confirmation under PROMESA. Representative Denis Márquez and others said the committee needs clear answers from Hacienda, the Office of Management and Budget and the Fiscal Agency (AFAF) before advancing the bill.

Arnaldo Ortiz told the panel that "la determinación solo a disponibilidad de recursos y la identificación de una fuente de financiamiento corresponden, en 1º instancia, a las entidades fiscales" and recommended continued work with fiscal agencies and the Junta de Supervisión Fiscal. Members cited past exceptions such as annual Christmas bonuses and the Ley 80 pathway as examples where action was taken despite fiscal constraints, but stressed that a formal fiscal and legal route must be identified before adoption.