Rep. Ritchie Torres Leads Resolution with Rep. Pablo José Hernández Rivera Urging President Trump to Address Puerto Rico’s Electrical Grid Crisis

This week, Congressman Ritchie Torres (NY-15), alongside Resident Commissioner Pablo José Hernández Rivera (PR) introduced a resolution “expressing continued support for the people of Puerto Rico, and urging the Federal Government to expedite the rebuilding of Puerto Rico’s electrical grid.” Reps. Darren Soto (FL-09) and Nydia Velázquez (NY-07) joined as original cosponsors.

The resolution reads (full PDF here)

“Whereas the people of Puerto Rico continue to endure frequent power outages, unreliable service, and high energy costs, which adversely affect the quality of life, health, safety, and economic stability of more than 3,000,000 American citizens; Whereas, since Hurricane Maria made landfall in 2017, the people of Puerto Rico continue to have an unreliable electrical grid; Whereas Puerto Rico is continuing to face a humanitarian crisis; Whereas the current state of the electric grid hinders the economic growth and development of Puerto Rico, resulting in the loss of millions of dollars; Whereas Congress has appropriated billions of dollars for the rebuilding of the electrical grid, but a small amount of funds have been expended; Whereas issues related to workforce capacity, supply chain, and regulations have delayed the reconstruction of a sustainable electric grid; Whereas progress has been slow, frustration is widespread, and residents are still waiting for substantial improvements; Whereas the United States has a responsibility to support Puerto Rico and ensure that its residents receive equitable treatment and investment in infrastructure; Whereas the people of Puerto Rico urgently need the continued support of the Federal Government to rebuild the electrical grid and address other infrastructure projects; and Whereas rebuilding the electrical grid of Puerto Rico is one of the most urgent infrastructure needs in the United States: Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the House of Representatives— (1) commits to supporting the people of Puerto Rico and assisting in restoring the island to its full potential; and (2) urges the President and Federal agencies to take immediate and decisive action to address the electric grid crisis in Puerto Rico and support efforts to build a more resilient system.”