Steps being taken to improve conditions
As the everyday lives of Puerto Ricans continue to change, locals have begun acting to make a difference for their fellow islanders. This extends past regular citizens, but even to government officials who notice changes in their Island.
It’s important to recognize and support acts in favor of uplifting locals and preventing the continued displacement of the vibrant community that inhabits the island of Puerto Rico.
H.R.1696 - Puerto Rico Low-Income Housing Support Act
This bill would amend the US Housing Act of 1937 to align Puerto Rico’s definition of “extremely low-income” with the poverty guidelines used in the contiguous U.S., potentially expanding access to federal housing assistance for low-income families on the Island. By expanding eligibility and improving insight into housing support, it aims to increase affordable housing access for low-income Puerto Ricans and counter displacement pressures from rising housing costs tied to gentrification.
S.1228 - Territorial Equity Act of 2021
This bill would extend key federal benefit programs— including Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, the Earned Income Tax Credit, and others— to Puerto Rico on a more equitable basis with states, reducing disparities in social and economic support. Improving economic stability and financial resources for Puerto Rican residents, it can help reduce vulnerability to displacement and housing insecurity that often accompany gentrification.
H.Res.1553
This House resolution expresses the sense that Congress should act to close tax loopholes that allow wealthy investors to exploit Puerto Rico’s tax incentives like Act 22 and contribute to housing price spikes and displacement. By calling for action on these tax issues, the resolution aims to discourage external financial pressures that can accelerate gentrification and make housing less affordable for long-term residents.
