Government Requests Reconsideration of the 'Vaccine Leave Expense Support Act'

[Asia Economy Reporter Kang Nahum] Regarding the so-called 'Vaccine Leave Expense Support Act' aimed at increasing vaccination rates, the government has requested a reconsideration.

According to political circles on the 11th, the National Assembly's Health and Welfare Committee passed an amendment to the Infectious Disease Control and Prevention Act at the bill subcommittee on the 27th of last month. The amendment allows vaccinated individuals to receive paid leave and enables the state and local governments to support employers with paid leave expenses if necessary.

This bill aims to encourage vaccination among 'leave-vulnerable groups' such as self-employed individuals and workers in special employment types by opening the possibility of government support for leave expenses. The scope of leave expenses and payments are to be determined by presidential decree.

In response, the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency reportedly conveyed to the Health and Welfare Committee that "it is difficult to estimate the budget," and expressed concerns that legally stipulating leave expenses might be excessive legislation.

A Health and Welfare Committee official stated, "The bill is scheduled to be discussed at the next plenary meeting, but since the government has expressed reluctance, the ruling and opposition party members will discuss it once again."