Puerto Rico COVID-19 Update Executive Order 2021-058 & Administrative Order 2021-512
By: Angel Berberena, Esq.
July 29, 2021
On July 28, 2021, the Governor of Puerto Rico, Hon. Pedro R. Pierluisi, issued Executive Order 2021-058 (EO 2021-058) requiring COVID vaccination for all government employees. Following existing guidelines, employees with medical conditions and bona fide religious affiliations may be exempted from this requirement. EO 2021-058 also recommends private employers and establishments that provide services to the public to adopt similar measures to stop the spread of the virus.
On the same day, the Puerto Rico Department of Health (DOH) issued Administrative Order 2021-512 (AO 2021-512). This Order requires the use of face masks by all persons in public or private closed spaces, regardless of the individual’s vaccination status. These locations include businesses, medical offices, government offices, casinos, financial institutions, places where consumer, professional, non-professional or religious services are provided, universities, theaters, colosseums, bars, and others. The use of face masks will also be required, regardless of vaccination status, while in open spaces (e.g., parks, sidewalks, beaches) if the persons are unable to keep a social distance of 6 feet.
Failure to observe the DOH Order may result in administrative fines of $100 for individuals and $500 for businesses and corporations as per Regulation 9210. If the infraction is committed by a minor, the administrative fine will be given to the parent or legal guardian of said minor. See: Client Alert of August 25, 2020.
Goldman Antonetti & Córdova, LLC stands ready to assist you and your business to adjust to Puerto Rico’s regulatory and legal changes. If you need further assistance in this area, please contact any of the following members of our Firm:
Angel Berberena
[email protected]
787.759.4143
Javier Vazquez
[email protected]
787.759.4113
Howard Pravda
[email protected]
787.759.4110
Vicente Antonetti
[email protected]
787.759.4112
Romel Meléndez
[email protected]
787.759.4115
Luis Ortiz Abreu
[email protected]
787.759.4110
Gabriel Quintero
[email protected]
787.759.4130
Disclaimer: Although the information included in this document may concern legal issues, it is not a legal opinion or professional advice and clients shall not use it as such. We assume no responsibility or liability of any kind for any information contained herein, and we expressly disclaim all liability for any claim for damages arising from the use, reference to, or reliance on, such information. If legal or other expert assistance is required, the services of a competent professional should be sought.