Taipei: Taiwan's Legislature has unanimously passed the Childcare Services Act, marking a significant step towards ensuring the safety and welfare of children under the age of two. The newly enacted law imposes stringent penalties on any childcare provider found guilty of abusing or sexually assaulting young children, with fines reaching up to NT$600,000 (US$19,630). Furthermore, the identities of offenders and the involved childcare institutions will be publicly disclosed.According to Focus Taiwan, the legislation requires that all childcare providers and facilities upload CCTV footage to government-designated platforms, with a mandatory retention period of at least 30 days. This move comes in response to a tragic childcare abuse case in 2023, where two certified home-based nurses were responsible for the death of a toddler known as "Kai Kai." This incident prompted the Cabinet to propose this legal reform, which was approved in May 2025.Currently, childcare services fall under the broader Child and Juve nile Welfare and Rights Protection Act, which inadequately addresses home-based childcare through only a small fraction of its provisions. The new Act aims to provide comprehensive regulations, establish guidance and management mechanisms, and protect the rights and interests of both children and their parents.Under the new law, the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) is tasked with developing a national childcare policy, conducting regular assessments of childcare needs, and compiling data on services, including fee structures. A consultative council will be established to set principles governing fees and refunds for both home-based and institutional childcare services.Local authorities will be responsible for determining region-specific fee standards, which must be reviewed biennially. The law prohibits home-based childcare providers from charging beyond the prescribed fees. Additionally, childcare providers must secure professional liability insurance before commencing services.The Act also mandat es that inspections and supervision of home-based childcare providers by local authorities cannot be obstructed or refused. Unlicensed childcare institutions accepting children without authorization will face fines ranging from NT$60,000 to NT$300,000 and will be ordered to cease operations. The Cabinet will determine the date of the law's implementation.