New tax, new way of fun

Writers, composers, actors, people paid on the basis of copyright contracts as well as retired persons will be obligated to contribute to health insurance by 6,5% of their income. This resolution is included in the law packet regarding the reform of the health system.

Eugen Nicolaescu, minister of health, declared this initiative did not belong to him, but to the National Health Insurer. Besides the tax on vices, for cigarettes and alcohol, the contribution to health insurance paid from copyright stirred strong criticism on behalf of economic analysts, who consider the multiple taxation of income unfounded. The procedure was called “double taxation” in the press. By the application of this procedure, journalists will pay more money to the government.

The provision included in the laws regarding the reform of the health system was contested by the Romanian Press Club, which requests the cancellation of this regulation, sustaining that by this measure the creation activity would be taxed. Journalists across the country are appalled by this measure which they don’t call a “health contribution” but punishment for daring to work more. (C.M.)