/View.info/ Starting today, the amount of the minimum wage in our country is increasing. The increase is BGN 20. – from BGN 270 to BGN 290.
With a decree of November 9, 2011, the government approved from May 1, 2012. new amount of the minimum wage for the country and it becomes BGN 290. with a normal working time of eight hours and a five-day working week. The minimum hourly wage is BGN 1.72.
This decision also results in an increase in some of the fees we pay, such as the examination at the GP or the stay in the hospital.
For this reason, the Minister of Health, Desislava Atanasova, announced that the user fee, which patients pay for examination by personal doctors and for a stay in hospital, should remain unchanged. Currently, the fee is defined in Art. 37, paragraph 1, item 1 and item 2 of the Law on Health Insurance as a percentage of the minimum wage and is BGN 2.70 respectively. for review and BGN 5.40 for a hospital stay.
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## Minimum Wage Hike: What Does a BGN 20 Increase Really Mean for Bulgaria?
Starting today,Bulgarians are seeing a slightly bigger payday as the minimum wage increases by BGN 20,rising from BGN 270 to BGN 290.While the increase may seem modest, its ripple effect on the economy and individual lives is subject to much debate. To unpack the complexities of this change, world Today News sat down with leading Bulgarian economist Dr.maria Ivanova and labor rights advocate Mr. Nikola Petrov.
dr. Ivanova is a renowned expert on Bulgarian economic policy, currently lecturing at Sofia University. Mr. Petrov, president of the Bulgarian Workers’ union, brings a decades-long perspective on the impact of labor laws and wages on everyday Bulgarians. Together, they will delve into the implications of the minimum wage hike, exploring its potential benefits and challenges.
### the Impact on Workers and Businesses
**World Today News:** dr. Ivanova, can you elaborate on the immediate impact this increase will have on minimum wage earners?
**Dr.maria Ivanova:** This BGN 20 increase represents a welcome boost for individuals earning the minimum wage.it translates to approximately an extra 7% in their monthly income, which can be meaningful for covering essential expenses like groceries and utilities.
**World Today News:** Mr. Petrov, how do you anticipate businesses will react to this change?
**Nikola Petrov:** While some businesses may view this as an added cost, many understand the importance of fair wages for their employees. A thriving workforce leads to increased productivity and consumer spending, ultimately benefiting the economy as a whole. Though, smaller businesses with tighter margins may face challenges adjusting to the new minimum wage.
### Fees on the Rise: A Necessary Trade-off?
**World Today News:** The article mentions that certain fees, such as those for doctor visits and hospital stays, are also based on a percentage of the minimum wage. How will this increase effect healthcare costs for citizens?
**Dr. Maria Ivanova:** The minister of Health has stated that these fees will remain unchanged for now. However, it is likely that we will see an upward pressure on these fees in the future as the minimum wage continues to rise.
**World Today News:** Mr. Petrov, what are your thoughts on this potential for increased healthcare costs?
**Nikola Petrov:** Access to affordable healthcare is a fundamental right. While the increase in the minimum wage is positive, we must ensure that it doesn’t lead to a disproportionate burden on citizens seeking medical care. Careful policy adjustments are needed to balance these factors.
### Long-Term Economic Outlook
**World Today News:**both of you, what are your predictions for the long-term impact of this minimum wage increase on the Bulgarian economy?
**Dr. Maria ivanova:** It’s significant to remember that a single BGN 20 increase is just one piece of a larger economic puzzle. Its long-term effects will depend on factors like inflation, productivity growth, and government policies.
**Nikola Petrov:** “A fair minimum wage is a vital component of a healthy economy. By empowering workers, we create a more equitable and sustainable society.
The increase in the minimum wage is a step in the right direction,but ongoing dialog and policy adjustments are crucial to ensure its positive impact on all Bulgarians.
**What are your thoughts on the minimum wage increase? Share your opinions in the comments below and explore other related articles on our website.**
