Report on Puerto Rico's occupational regulations
Date postedJanuary 15, 2025
A recent report by the Institute for Economic Liberty (ILE) highlights that Puerto Rico enforces over 140 occupational licenses, with 34 required in fewer than five U.S. jurisdictions and 13 unique to the island.
The study argues that these regulations extend to professions with minimal health or safety risks, creating burdens for individuals, particularly in low- and middle-income roles, due to the associated costs, time, and effort. The ILE suggests reforms such as eliminating unnecessary licenses, easing restrictions for individuals with criminal records, adopting universal recognition of U.S. licenses, and aligning local requirements with less stringent equivalents to stimulate economic growth and labor participation.