Congresswoman Ramirez Urges Congress to Address Act 22 to Protect Puerto Rico and IL-03

Washington, DC - Yesterday, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03) took to the House floor to call on her colleagues to address the federal tax loopholes that allow wealthy American citizens to evade taxes by “moving” to Puerto Rico through Act 22. Ramirez argues that the loopholes are creating a crisis of displacement, tax evasion, and housing affordability in Puerto Rico while depriving congressional districts in the United States of crucial funding for the communities.

For video of remarks, click HERE:

• Mr/ Mrs. Speaker, I rise today to speak on a crisis of displacement, tax evasion, and housing affordability that is directly affecting our communities, including the people of Illinois Third Congressional District. 
• Because of Act 22 and federal tax loopholes, Puerto Rico is the only place where a wealthy American - with no tie to the island - can move and evade paying any federal taxes: taxes that represent essential funds for safety net programs and critical infrastructure in our districts. 
• And while those Americans seek out a tax shelter in Puerto Rico, they are driving up the price of rent by 600%, privatizing lands that belong to the people, robbing Puerto Ricans of affordable housing, and driving the second largest out-migration the island has seen. 
• Congress has the responsibility to close the Act 22 loophole, hurting Puerto Rico and depriving our districts of vital resources. 
• Thank you, and I yield back.

BACKGROUND

Congresswoman Ramirez's priorities include providing affordable housing and protecting safety net programs and federal community investments from cuts or detrimental actions that put the well-being of families in danger. 

Illinois 3rd Congressional District includes the neighborhood of Humboldt Park, which is home to one of the largest Puerto Rican communities in the Midwest. Ramirez has worked closely with several organizations to tackle issues that affect communities in Puerto Rico and people in her district. The Congresswoman has consistently worked to provide food sovereignty and better living conditions on the island.