TAIPEI, Taiwan — The Legislative Yuan is expected to give its final approval on Friday to a measure granting NT$10,000 (US$325) in cash assistance to citizens, marking the last step before the government begins releasing the funds.
The payout is part of the NT$550 billion special relief package approved by the Cabinet on September 11, aimed at stimulating the economy and supporting citizens amid financial challenges. Of this amount, NT$236 billion has been specifically allocated for the cash handout, while NT$20 billion will be reserved for future industrial development and support measures.
Committees Approve Budget in Joint Session
Joint sessions of several key Legislative Yuan committees—including Finance, Interior, Foreign Affairs and National Defense, Economic Affairs, Education and Culture, and Social Welfare and Environmental Hygiene—were held on October 8–9 to review the special budget.
The committees gave preliminary approval to the relief package, but cross-party negotiations were needed to finalize the details before the full legislative vote.
Lawmakers Agree to Expedite Approval
During Tuesday’s inter-party discussions, lawmakers from both the ruling and opposition camps agreed to complete the third reading on Friday, ensuring the measure passes without delay. The session will exclude policy questioning and ad hoc proposals, focusing solely on confirming the budget.
The agreement means Friday’s proceedings will largely be a procedural step, with no further debate expected—a move aimed at speeding up the distribution process.
Payouts to Begin Within a Month
According to Cabinet Spokesperson Michelle Lee (李慧芝), the government must begin distributing the NT$10,000 aid within one month after the president formally promulgates the budget.
Lee emphasized that the administration is committed to delivering the relief funds as quickly as possible once the legislative process is complete.
The cash assistance program is part of Taiwan’s ongoing effort to boost domestic consumption and ease economic pressure on citizens, especially amid global financial uncertainties.