What Is 21st Senate of Puerto Rico

Overview

The 21st Senate of Puerto Rico is the current legislative body serving as the upper chamber of the Legislative Assembly of Puerto Rico. It was inaugurated on January 2, 2021, following the general elections held in November 2020, and its term will end on January 2, 2025. This Senate represents a critical phase in Puerto Rico’s political landscape, shaped by economic challenges, recovery from natural disasters, and ongoing debates over political status.

Composed of 27 members, the Senate includes 16 senators elected from eight senatorial districts and 11 at-large members elected island-wide. Leadership is anchored by Senate President Thomas Rivera Schatz of the New Progressive Party (PNP), who returned to the role after previously serving from 2017 to 2019. The chamber operates under a divided political environment, reflecting shifting voter sentiment and the rise of newer political movements.

• Term start date: The 21st Senate officially began its term on January 2, 2021, following certification of the 2020 election results.
• Composition: The Senate includes 27 members: 16 district representatives and 11 elected at-large, ensuring both regional and island-wide representation.
• Majority party: The New Progressive Party (PNP) holds 12 seats, allowing it to lead legislative initiatives and committee appointments.
• Opposition parties: The Popular Democratic Party (PPD) holds 8 seats, while the Citizen Victory Movement (MVC) holds 4, marking a breakthrough for an independent coalition.
• Leadership: Thomas Rivera Schatz (PNP) was elected Senate President, returning to the role after a two-year gap, signaling continuity in PNP leadership.

How It Works

The 21st Senate functions as the upper legislative house in Puerto Rico’s bicameral system, responsible for passing laws, confirming appointments, and overseeing executive actions. Its structure and operations are defined by the Puerto Rico Constitution and legislative rules.

• Term: Senators serve four-year terms, with the 21st Senate’s term running from January 2, 2021, to January 2, 2025. Elections are held every four years in November, concurrent with the gubernatorial race.
• Leadership roles: The Senate President, elected by members, controls committee assignments, agenda setting, and presides over sessions, wielding significant influence over legislation.
• Legislative process: Bills introduced in the Senate require approval by committee, then two floor votes; if passed, they move to the House of Representatives for concurrence.
• Committees: The Senate operates over 15 standing committees, including Finance, Justice, and Economic Development, each reviewing bills relevant to their domain.
• Confirmation powers: The Senate confirms gubernatorial appointments to key positions, including cabinet secretaries, judges, and public corporation executives.
• Bicameral coordination: The Senate works with the House of Representatives to reconcile differences in legislation through a conference committee when needed.
• Public access: Sessions are open to the public, and legislative records, including bills and voting records, are published online via the Legislative Assembly’s official portal.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of the 21st Senate with previous legislative sessions to highlight changes in composition and leadership.

This table illustrates consistent Senate size and the dominance of the PNP in recent decades, with the 21st Senate continuing PNP leadership despite growing opposition from MVC. The re-election of Rivera Schatz underscores institutional continuity amid evolving political dynamics.

Why It Matters

The 21st Senate plays a pivotal role in shaping Puerto Rico’s recovery and governance amid fiscal oversight, natural disaster resilience, and status debates. Its legislative output impacts public services, economic policy, and political representation.

• Fiscal oversight: The Senate reviews budgets under the oversight of the Fiscal Oversight and Management Board established by PROMESA.
• Disaster recovery: It approves funding and policies related to rebuilding after hurricanes Maria (2017) and ETA (2020).
• Political status: The Senate debates bills related to Puerto Rico’s potential statehood, independence, or enhanced commonwealth status.
• Public corruption: It conducts investigations into past administrations, enhancing transparency and accountability in government.
• Education reform: The Senate has advanced legislation to modernize Puerto Rico’s public education system and teacher evaluations.
• Energy policy: It oversees the transition from PREPA to private energy operators, aiming to improve grid reliability and reduce costs.

As Puerto Rico navigates complex challenges, the 21st Senate’s decisions will have lasting implications for governance, economic development, and the island’s political future.