LGBT Rights in Puerto Rico

LGBT Rights In Puerto Rico

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) persons in Puerto Rico face some legal issues. Public discussion and debate about sexual orientation and gender identity issues have increased, and some legal changes have been made. Currently, both supporters and opponents of legislation protecting the rights of LGBT persons can be found in either of the major political parties. Public opposition still exists due, in large part, to the strong influence of the Roman Catholic Church and socially conservative Protestants. However, Puerto Rico's status as a United States commonwealth has a great influence over legal rights of LGBT citizens, as the U.S Supreme Court has the ability to overturn Puerto Rican laws that the court finds unconstitutional.