Littler Global Guide - Puerto Rico - Q4 2023

Browse through brief employment and labor law updates from around the globe. Contact a Littler attorney for more information or view our global locations.

View all Q4 2023 Global Guide Quarterly updates   Download full Q4 2023 Global Guide Quarterly

New Puerto Rico Military Code: What Employers Should Know

New Legislation Enacted

Authors: Erika Berríos-Berríos, Capital Member, and Irene Viera Matta, Associate – Schuster LLC Littler

On August 8, 2023, Puerto Rico enacted Act No. 88-2023, known as the “Puerto Rican Military Code of the 21st Century.” This new law supersedes the previously enacted Military Code of Puerto Rico from 1969. This new code provides for some important amendments, such as special leave for both private and public employees and modifies reemployment requirements.

This new law addresses an armed forces member’s entitlement to protected military leave and reinstatement rights.

Noncompliance with the new Military Code dispositions may result in $5,000 fines per infraction, imprisonment for up to three years, or both penalties at the discretion of the court. The statute of limitations for claims regarding infractions of this Military Code was increased from six months to one year from the termination or discriminatory act. Additional details are available on Littler.com.

Sports-Related Employment Law Updates in Puerto Rico

New Legislation Enacted

Author: Erika Berríos-Berríos, Capital Member – Schuster LLC Littler

A new law in Puerto Rico provides several pay and anti-discrimination protections for pregnant athletes. A separate sports-related employment law extends leave protections for eligible athletes, coaches and specialized personnel who are absent from their jobs to represent Puerto Rico in official sports competitions.

Information contained in this publication is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or opinion, nor is it a substitute for the professional judgment of an attorney.