Employment law in Puerto Rico is covered both by U.S. labor law and Puerto Rico’s Constitution, which affirms the right of employees to choose their occupation, to have a reasonable minimum salary, a regular workday not exceeding eight hours, and to receive overtime compensation for work beyond eight hours.

What was the result of US involvement in Puerto Rico?

In 1917, the U.S. Congress passed the Jones Act, which brought Puerto Rico the first significant political changes under U.S. colonial rule. With this law, Congress established a popularly elected legislative branch (a Senate and a House of Representatives) and extended American citizenship to Puerto Rican citizens.

Why was the USA interested in controlling Puerto Rico?

The U.S. invaded Puerto Rico not only because it was a Spanish territory, but also due to its interests in developing a sugar market there, says Lillian Guerra, a history professor at the University of Florida.

Are Puerto Ricans hard working?

Employed in labor-intensive jobs, working long hours with little pay, and living in poor, dangerous neighborhoods, the Puerto Rican experience has become one of resilience and struggle in the United States.

What is the typical work day in Puerto Rico?

8 hours per day
The regular work shift for non-exempt employees is 8 hours per day and a regular workweek of 40 hours per week.

How did the US get Puerto Rico as a territory?

They reached their goal in 1897; however, a year later, Spain ceded the island to the United States under the provisions of the 1898 Treaty of Paris, which ended the Spanish-American War. In 1917, Puerto Rico became a U.S. territory and its people became U.S. citizens.

Does America Own Puerto Rico?

In 1898, following the Spanish–American War, the United States acquired Puerto Rico. Puerto Ricans have been U.S. citizens since 1917, and can move freely between the island and the mainland. Puerto Rico is represented federally solely by one non-voting member of the House called a “Resident Commissioner.”

What kind of jobs are available in Puerto Rico?

Working in Puerto Rico Puerto Rico is a popular retirement destination for expats, especially US citizens, for its easy accessibility and incredible scenery. For those interested in working in Puerto Rico, the two most common sectors are manufacturing and tourism. Job market in Puerto Rico

Is it good to hire employees in Puerto Rico?

One major bonus of hiring employees in Puerto Rico is the relatively low wages compared to the United States. According to Indeed statistics, here are the average wages for select jobs as of March 2020:

How big is the workforce in Puerto Rico?

The report highlighted Puerto Rico’s workforce of 1.3 million, which includes a sizeable proportion of highly skilled workers. The 30,000+ advanced degrees in STEM fields that Puerto Rico grants every year are clear evidence of the skills of the Puerto Rican workforce.

Can a Puerto Rican citizen work in the United States?

Given the unfortunate and difficult economic circumstances on the island, Puerto Rican citizens are actively seeking opportunities throughout the U.S. We are tapped into our communities and can help you recruit the talent you need from across the U.S.*