Hsinchu County Government Increases Bus Driver Salary Subsidy to NT$20,000 Monthly

The Hsinchu County Government announced an increase in its monthly subsidy for bus drivers' salaries, raising it from the previous NT$10,000 to a maximum of NT$20,000. This measure is intended to combat the ongoing driver shortage faced by the public transportation sector. County Magistrate Yang Wen-ke stated that the increased subsidy, effective from 2024, aims to assist bus companies in recruiting new drivers and encouraging former drivers to return, ultimately enhancing the quality of public transportation services. The subsidy program, set to run from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2026, will apply to drivers registered in Hsinchu County who operate regular urban bus routes within the county. The subsidy amount will vary based on the type of vehicle operated, with quarterly reviews and disbursements. The county's Department of Transportation highlighted that as ridership grows, ensuring a stable supply of drivers is crucial for maintaining service frequency, especially during peak hours. The initiative seeks to stabilize the workforce and attract new talent while also requiring drivers to improve their service quality to protect the rights of passengers.