Travelers Who Bring In Wildlife May Be Violating the Law

In order more effectively to close off illegal channels for the entry into Taiwan of chameleons, wa-wa-yu (Chinese salamanders), and other wild animals from mainland China, the Council of Agriculture in the Executive Yuan has decided that all wild animals brought into the country by travelers will be reported to the Japan chapter of the international Special Commission for Investigating Trade in Wild Plants and Animals, which in turn will notify the countries of export so that the exporters involved may be strictly apprehended.

In addition, following the proclamation this June of species protected under the Wild Animal Conservation Law, not only will illegal smugglers be held accountable for their actions but persons who slaughter protected species may be sentenced to up to three years in prison.

Accordingly, the Council of Agriculture indicates that persons who possess protected species should register before the end of November with the appropriate agency in the city or county in which the animals are held. Those who have successfully raised protected animals should make public the equipment and raising techniques used, and the animals may not be bought or sold until they have reproduced to the second generation.

Insurance Offered to Relatives of Overseas Students in the U.S. While on Visits

Family members of ROC students in the United States who are injured or taken seriously ill during a visit there can now receive medical insurance protection.

The Cultural Division of the ROC's Coordination Council for North American Affairs began to implement a medical insurance plan for overseas students in the U.S. the year before last. This year, in view of the fact that the average overseas student is unable to bear the medical expenses of a relative who lacks medical insurance and is forced to seek treatment or stay in a hospital during a visit to the U.S., the Cultural Division is offering a special medical insurance program for the family members of overseas students in the U.S. on visits to the U.S.

All family members of overseas students in the U.S. between the ages 19 and 75 who visit the U.S. for a period of no more than six months can take part in the program. The insurance, short-term in nature, is divided into the three categories of coverage in case of accident, death, or crippling injury; coverage of major medical and treatment expenses; and coverage of trans portation expenses to return to the ROC for treatment.

The fee is US$50 a month for persons aged 19 to 49, US$100 for ages 50 to 64, and US$175 for ages 65 to 75. Children under the age of 19 who travel accompanied by an adult can be covered for an extra charge of US$15 per child. The fee for children supported by their parents but who travel alone is US$40 each.

For further details, please call the Federation of Chinese Student Association in U.S.A., (718) 803-3701 or write to them for a free brochure and price list (enclosing a stamped self-addressed envelope) at 42-65, 79 St., Elmhurst, New York 11373. The material may also be obtained from the Cultural Division of the Coordination Council for North American Affairs.