Future Account Bill Stalls in First Review; Entire Text Sent to Caucus Negotiation

In response to Taiwan's declining birth rate, the Legislative Yuan held a review of the 'Future Account Special Bill' and the 'Child and Youth Investment Savings Account Bill.' Opposition parties proposed a system where parents' contributions would be tax-deductible and guaranteed a minimum return. However, DPP legislator Lin Yue-chin expressed concerns that such a system could exacerbate wealth inequality between affluent and disadvantaged families. KMT legislator Wang Yu-min argued that government growth subsidies are insufficient and that legislation is needed to ensure future financial security for children. Minister of Health and Welfare Shih Chung-liang explained that growth subsidies are universal welfare benefits, distinct from the savings-based nature of the Future Account. Ultimately, no consensus was reached, and the entire text was sent to party caucus negotiation.