Several new measures are set to take effect on Jan. 1, including rules governing environmental protection, the implementation of compulsory garbage separation and the requirement for prospective citizenss to produce proof of basic Chinese language ability and civic knowledge.
The garbage separation policy, which has been in place in some cities and counties since early this year, will be expanded to the whole nation at the start of the new year.
Garbage separation
According to the policy, people are required to separate their garbage into three categories -- ordinary garbage, recyclables and food scraps -- before taking it out to the garbage truck. Garbage that is not properly separated will be rejected, with offenders facing a fine of between NT$1,200 (US$36.5) and NT$6,000.
For three months after the policy's implementation, offenders will not be fined but will be given advice and told to separate their garbage properly.
Also starting next year, foreigners seeking Republic of China citizenship must either present documents proving their basic language ability and civic knowledge, or take tests to be held four times a year by the Ministry of the Interior (MOI).
The MOI announced the criteria that will be used to measure language ability and civic knowledge of naturalization applicants last month. The criteria was formulated in accordance with a May 20 amendment to the Nationality Law (國籍法), which requires naturalization applicants to have a basic language ability and civic knowledge.
Polluting scooters
Motorcyclists who fail to send their motorcycles for regular emission inspection will, starting Jan. 1, be fined NT$2,000 and banned from renewing their vehicle registration.
From Jan. 1, gas stations nationwide will be required to install gas collection facilities to lower the concentration of benzene and volatile organics released to protect workers' health. Violators can be fined up to NT$1 million.
New rules
Environmental protection
Jan. 1, 2006
Jan-Mar is a transition period. Beginning on Apr. 1, neglecting to sort waste will result in a fine of between NT$1200 to NT$6000.
Medication
Early 2006
THe National Bureau of Health will no longer cover small quantities of drugs such as vitamins or calcium pills
Traffic
Jan. 1, 2006
Following Taiwan Railways' implementation of voice services and internet ticket purchases, the period for picking up and paying for tickets over the internet will be reduced from five days to three days.
Foreigners
Jan. 1, 2006
Foreigners seeking ROC citizenship must either present documents proving basic language ability and civic knowledge or take a test to be held four times a year by the Ministry of Interior.
Foreign workers
Jan. 1, 2006
New regulations for applying for foreign care givers. Anyone who has been determined by a medical team to require 24-hour care may apply for a foreign care giver.
Fiance and economy
Jan. 1, 2006
Following the implementation of minimum tax, taxes will increase for almost 5,400 companies and more than 16,000 wealthy people
Jan. 1, 2006
The six main exemptions for inheritance and gift tax and the difference between tax levels are adjusted by 11 percent. The standard income tax deduction for married couples increases from NT$67,000 to NT$88,000.
Agriculture
Jan. 1, 2006
The subside for elderly farmers will increase from the current NT$4,000 to NT$5,000
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