Opinion: A Solution for Puerto Rico

To the Editor:
I respectfully disagree with the eight House Democrats who recently urged Treasury Secretary Jacob J. Lew to support bankruptcy for Puerto Rico (“Hispanic Contingent in Congress Asks Treasury to Prevent ‘Catastrophe’ in Puerto Rico,” Business Day, Sept. 15).

The 2008 bailout of two automotive companies is just not an imitable case study for Puerto Rico given the significant difference in scope and complexity. 

Democratic lawmakers who demand a one-size-fits-all blueprint are doing Puerto Rico, as well as all Americans, a disservice. Now is not the time to put political posturing over solutions.
Even the continued discussion of Chapter 9 bankruptcy is harming the island by damaging its credibility with investors and raising the cost of borrowing.

Puerto Rican families and businesses need real, substantive reform that will create opportunity and economic growth.

 Democrats are pushing a political agenda that might work for them on Capitol Hill, but instead we should be working together to create a better solution for Puerto Rico and for all Americans.

MARIO H. LOPEZ

President, Hispanic Leadership Fund
Washington


A Solution for Puerto Rico

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