The Czech government is planning to eliminate mandatory health checks for entry-level employees in certain professions, as part of its second anti-bureaucratic package aimed at reducing regulatory burdens on businesses. The proposed changes will remove the requirement for medical examinations in administrative roles, cashier positions, and certain sales positions. Additionally, food hygiene certificates for restaurant and bakery employees will be abolished, with the government arguing that these certificates do not accurately reflect an individual’s current ability to handle food safely and are often issued without an expiration date. In the healthcare sector, hygiene regulations will be adjusted to facilitate the seasonal production of homemade jams and syrups.

The government’s intention behind these changes is to alleviate bureaucracy and administrative burdens on businesses, allowing them to focus more on their core operations. However, critics have voiced concerns that these measures may compromise important health and safety protections for workers.

These proposed changes are part of a broader effort by the Czech government to streamline regulations and reduce the regulatory burden on businesses. In the past year, the government has already abolished electronic sales records and mandatory periodic medical check-ups for low-risk employees. They have also increased the turnover limit for mandatory VAT payments and introduced a flat tax rate for businesses with a turnover of up to two million Czech korun.

While some business groups have praised the government’s efforts, others argue that the regulatory burden remains excessively high. Zdeněk Zajíček, the president of the Czech Chamber of Commerce, recently criticized the government’s approach, stating that new regulations are being introduced at a faster pace than old ones are being removed.

One example of the government’s recent administrative requirements is a proposed law that would mandate employers to register all work agreements with government agencies. This proposal is part of a larger package aimed at consolidating public finances and preventing the abuse of work agreements, wherein individuals work for multiple employers without paying social and health insurance.

As the Czech government continues its regulatory reforms, the effectiveness of these changes in reducing bureaucratic burdens and fostering economic growth remains to be seen. Striking a balance between easing regulations for businesses and ensuring the well-being and safety of workers will be crucial for sustainable and equitable economic development.

Article by Prague Forum