Puerto Rico: Possible 72-hour police strike territorywide beginning Oct. 29 over retirement benefits

Event

Unions and other unofficial spokespersons for the territory's police force have suggested the strong possibility of officers not reporting to work Oct. 29 - Oct. 31, coinciding with Halloween weekend. While the measure would not be a strike, per se, as officers would use sick leave, the end result would be the same as that of a work stoppage. Elements within the police force have stated that there would likely be no unrest or protests associated with the action, but instead, there would be a shortage of police personnel on duty due to officers staying home.

Adherence to the measure is unclear. Puerto Rico's Governor Pedro Pierluisi has stated that he believes the majority of officers will report to work as planned during the dates in question. The territory's Commissioner of Police has also expressed that he believes there will be sufficient personnel on duty. The governor's office continues to have discussions with police force representatives to avert the measure entirely. However, reports suggest that a higher than average number of officers have already begun to call in sick even before the work stoppage would officially begin Oct. 29, indicating at least some support for the measure among rank-and-file.

If a large number of officers participate in the labor action, it could result in a shortage of personnel on duty. Police response times could also be slower than usual, particularly in rural areas. Nonviolent crime rates could experience a short-term increase due to a reduced police presence.

Context

Supporters have proposed the 72-hour work stoppage as a way to pressure the government into guaranteeing retirement benefits after the federal judiciary recently struck down a retirement law. At present, the government has limited means to address officers' demands, as much of the island's fiscal policy must be approved by the federally-appointed Fiscal Control Board as part of the 2016 PROMESA law overseeing Puerto Rico's debt restructuring.

Advice

Monitor local media to remain apprised of developments regarding adherence to the potential work stoppage. Should the measure go forward as proposed, avoid nonessential activities outside personal residences Oct. 29 - Oct. 31.