The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment announced on June 1 that it will open a public comment period from June 2 to July 13 for a comprehensive revision of the enforcement decree and regulations of the 'Special Law for the Relief and Support of Humidifier Disinfectant Victims.' This revision follows the complete amendment of the special law in April and includes procedures for filing compensation claims, payment standards, and educational support.
The humidifier disinfectant disaster, which began with products sold since 1994, has caused environmental and health issues, including lung damage. To date, the government has recognized 6,011 out of 8,065 applicants as victims.
In December of last year, the government announced a comprehensive support plan for victims of the humidifier disinfectant disaster, indicating a shift to a state-led compensation system. The revised special law is set to take effect on October 8.
The key aspect of the revision is the transition from a government-supported relief system to a compensation system based on corporate responsibility.
The government will provide bereavement compensation, funeral expenses, and damages to the families of deceased victims, while those who suffered health issues will receive medical expenses, nursing costs, lost income, disability compensation, and damages. Detailed compensation standards and amounts will be determined by a compensation review committee, which will consider the extent of damage and income.
The application process for compensation claims has also been clarified. Existing recognized victims need only submit certain documents, while new applicants must provide proof related to treatment, nursing, and death, as well as estimates for future medical costs and disability assessments. Future medical and nursing expenses can be paid continuously if the victim prefers, rather than as a lump sum.
Support for victims will also be expanded. Student victims will have priority placement in desired middle and high schools and can receive up to eight semesters of college tuition support through national scholarships.
The compensation review system will undergo a complete overhaul. The existing relief committee will be transformed into the 'Humidifier Disinfectant Compensation Review Committee' under the Prime Minister, with the establishment of a compensation support team and a specialized committee.
Additionally, the Korea Environmental Industry and Technology Institute will be designated as the 'Humidifier Disinfectant Victim Management Center' to handle victim support tasks, including medical and legal consultations and assistance with compensation procedures. This aims to streamline the process from victim recognition to consultation and compensation support for greater convenience.
Furthermore, the financial burden on raw material suppliers will be increased. Their contribution rate will rise from 25% to 45% of the current humidifier disinfectant business contributions. In cases of non-payment, a daily penalty of 0.1% of the overdue amount will be imposed, and companies that fail to pay may be publicly disclosed in official gazettes and information systems.
Joo Hyun-soo, Director of the Environmental Health Bureau at the Ministry of Climate, stated, "We will ensure that the revision of the subordinate regulations is completed smoothly by the time the special law takes effect, so that the compensation review process for victims and their families can proceed without issues."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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