Legislature begins review of 'Dementia Basic Law' draft; Health Minister calls for caution

The Legislative Yuan held its first review today of the 'Dementia Basic Law' draft proposed by lawmakers from both ruling and opposition parties. Minister of Health and Welfare Hsueh Jui-yuan stated that there is already a cross-platform discussion mechanism for dementia issues, and since views on a basic law vary, the Ministry will respect the legislature's final decision. The legislature reviewed several versions of the draft, including those from the KMT caucus, the TPP caucus, and DPP lawmaker Lin Yue-chin. Premier Cho Jung-tai had previously questioned whether establishing a basic law for a single symptom meets societal needs. KMT lawmaker Chen Ching-hui and others cited WHO data, noting that dementia is a collective term for various brain diseases, not a 'single symptom,' and asked if the Ministry would propose its own version. Minister Hsueh replied that legislation requires a rigorous process and that comprehensive discussion is essential, considering existing policy frameworks and regulations. Lawmaker Wang Yu-min cited Japan as an example, arguing that a special law is needed to ensure policy sustainability. Minister Hsueh responded that if the content is feasible, it can be discussed, but noted that current efforts are already covered under the 'Dementia Prevention and Care Policy Program 3.0' and existing laws.