MPs approve National Health Fund budget at first reading

MPs on 6^th of November adopted the law of the Health Insurance Fund at first reading with 108 votes in favour. The opposition BSP and "Volya" party voted against the texts.

However, ensuring quorum triggered a problem. Exactly 122 of 240 were present in the plenary hall. After reading the reports of the main committees, GERB asked for a roll-call of MPs and also proposed and voted on financial sanctions for those who did not register. As expected, the Health Insurance Bill was adopted and supported by the ruling coalition partners, GERB and the United Patriots. However, both formations insist that changes be made between first and second reading on the various items of the budget allocation. GERB also insist on giving up the proposed re-licensing of hospitals as well as the limitation accrording to which doctos are entitled to only one contract of employment.

The opposition BSP and the liberal MRF did not back the draft Law on the Health Fund. The transitional and concluding provisions that lead to changes in 16 other laws triggered disagreements and discussions. The opposition opted against the transfer of the Transplant Agency to the newly established Medical Audit Agency as well as against the transfer of the Fund for the Treatment of Children Abroad to the Ministry of Health.

Volya party also announced that they would refrain from supporting the bill because they believe that a "scandal" correction is being made by amending the Privatization and Post-privatization Control Act.