November 21, 2025 — La Fortaleza, San Juan, Puerto Rico — Governor Jenniffer González-Colón signed two administration measures aimed at expediting the execution of energy projects, and opening new avenues for older adults to continue contributing to society through volunteer programs.
The Governor has consistently underscored the urgency of advancing reconstruction projects, particularly those tied to Puerto Rico’s urgent energy reliability. However, bureaucratic delays have hindered progress.
In response, the Governor proposed a bill to the Legislature to allow reconstruction projects to begin using state funds. The measure amends Joint Resolution 85-2020 to extend its effective period and expand the scope of the existing Revolving Fund. This will enable the issuance of loans, lines of credit, or advances to government agencies, public corporations, instrumentalities, and municipalities, thereby accelerating Puerto Rico’s recovery and the reconstruction of critical infrastructure.
Recovery Advances will be disbursed exclusively for eligible energy transformation projects under FEMA’s Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation Grant Programs, up to the approved amounts, including both the federal and local cost shares.
Governor González-Colón has consistently demonstrated, through concrete actions, the administration’s commitment to the well-being of older adults. One such initiative is this new law, which amends the “Volunteerism Act of Puerto Rico” to authorize municipalities, agencies, and instrumentalities of the Government of Puerto Rico to identify and pursue available federal funds that would allow older adults to participate in volunteer programs within the public sector.
The administration seeks to promote and develop programs that encourage older adults to serve as volunteers both in their communities and within government, fostering intergenerational connections through mentorship and shared experience.
The measure recognizes “the importance of guaranteeing the rights of our older adults, and of valuing their contributions and capacity as part of the workforce that Puerto Rico greatly needs. Their empathy, historical knowledge, and professional experience will strengthen the Puerto Rico we aspire to build. For this reason, it is fitting to approve all necessary legislation that improves the quality of life of the men and women who have given their best years serving both in the public and private sectors.”
###
