Local-food purchasing agreement supports producers and communities — a NAPREC perspective
USDA announced a cooperative agreement with Puerto Rico to purchase locally produced food for underserved communities. The initiative linked food access with opportunities for local farmers and a more resilient supply chain. Original NAPREC analysis in English and Spanish.
2022 BEACH Act support announced — a NAPREC perspective
EPA announced $330,000 for Puerto Rico’s beach-water monitoring and notification programs, supporting routine checks and information for beachgoers. Original NAPREC analysis in English and Spanish.
Lawmakers release a consensus status discussion draft — a NAPREC perspective
House leaders and sponsors of competing status bills announced a Puerto Rico Status Act discussion draft and a public-input phase. It was a legislative proposal for a status decision, not a change to Puerto Rico’s political status. Original NAPREC analysis in English and Spanish.
Four brownfields grants announced for Puerto Rico — a NAPREC perspective
EPA announced four grants totaling approximately $1.6 million for Puerto Rico to assess and clean up contaminated properties for future reuse. Original NAPREC analysis in English and Spanish.
IRS explains expanded Child Tax Credit access — a NAPREC perspective
The IRS issued guidance explaining how eligible Puerto Rico residents could claim the Child Tax Credit for tax year 2021. The announcement emphasized that families with one qualifying child could qualify under the American Rescue Plan changes. Original NAPREC analysis in English and Spanish.
Stormwater permit proposed for 73 communities — a NAPREC perspective
EPA proposed a general permit for small municipal storm-sewer systems in Puerto Rico, aimed at reducing polluted runoff into local waters. Original NAPREC analysis in English and Spanish.
Court upholds Puerto Rico’s exclusion from SSI — a NAPREC perspective
In Vaello Madero, the Supreme Court held that the Constitution did not require Congress to extend SSI to Puerto Rico residents. The ruling upheld the statutory distinction; it did not prevent Congress from choosing to expand the program. Original NAPREC analysis in English and Spanish.
Wetland mapping receives federal funding — a NAPREC perspective
EPA awarded more than $200,000 to update Puerto Rico wetland inventory maps, supporting environmental planning with newer geographic information. Original NAPREC analysis in English and Spanish.
February floods trigger watershed-protection assistance — a NAPREC perspective
Following heavy rain on February 5–6, NRCS activated emergency watershed assistance in Puerto Rico. The program targeted imminent threats to life and property from erosion and flooding. Original NAPREC analysis in English and Spanish.
Gas-station leak detection strengthened by settlement — a NAPREC perspective
EPA announced a settlement requiring improved tank monitoring and leak-detection measures across Puerto Rico gas stations, resolving alleged environmental violations. Original NAPREC analysis in English and Spanish.