TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Chiayi City Government has introduced an enhanced subsidy program for pregnant women using taxi services, effective from New Year's Day (Jan. 1). This initiative aims to create a more pregnancy-friendly environment and address the city's declining birthrate.
The city's Legislative Council has approved the budget for the upcoming year, which includes increased subsidies for pregnant women's transportation. Under the new plan, subsidies for expectant mothers' taxi rides will rise from NT＄2,800 to NT＄4,500, with the maximum subsidy per ride increasing from NT＄100 to NT＄150.
This support has been expanded to cover travel for medical visits beyond prenatal checkups, provided the rides are with designated fleets to and from medical institutions. Additionally, the validity of transportation tickets has been extended to include the first three months following the infant's birth.
The policy primarily targets Chiayi residents and immigrant mothers whose spouses are registered residents of Chiayi. In further efforts to support pregnant women under 20, Chiayi is offering emotional support, parenting guidance, legal counseling, and financial aid, among other services.