TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Legislative Yuan (立法院) postponed discussions on Tuesday (Dec. 31) regarding amendments to the "Senior Citizens Welfare Act" (老人福利法). The Kuomintang (KMT, 國民黨) cited the need for further deliberation and requested Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜) to continue negotiations.
The proposed amendments aim to exempt seniors over 65 with an individual income tax rate below 20% from paying National Health Insurance (NHI, 全民健保) premiums, with the central government covering the costs.
Medical groups have opposed the KMT's proposal, prompting the opposition party to suggest a revision. They propose lowering the income tax threshold from 20% to 5%. The Ministry of Health and Welfare (衛福部) has warned that regardless of the threshold adjustment, the NHI could face bankruptcy by 2026, potentially leading to increased premiums for all citizens.
KMT Legislator Lin Szu-ming (林思銘) highlighted the existing wealth exclusion thresholds implemented nationwide by approximately 15 counties and cities. However, he noted the varying percentages across regions, emphasizing the need for comprehensive discussion.
