Japanese children may soon have smiles their faces and money their pockets. As part a covid-19-related stimulus package, Japan's government is planning to give ¥100,000 ($880) to all children the age of 19. Around 20 million children, newborns to 18-year-olds, will receive the one-time payment. The initiative is part an election pledge Japan's newly-elected Prime Minister. During campaigning, he vowed to help "people need," such as part-time workers and families small children. Officials say the money will be given regardless the financial status of a child's family. All children any one family will receive the cash. The plan is expected to cost around ¥2 trillion ($17.6 billion).
The stimulus package is not its critics. Many people have reservations about splurging so much money when Japan is burdened so much debt. The country's debt is currently more than twice the size its economy. Government sources argue the cash is available the pandemic stimulus because a surplus of funds from fiscal 2020. Skeptics are questioning the plan's logic. They said most recipients would not be going to purchase high-cost items, dine upmarket restaurants or take domestic holidays. It is predicted that much the money will end in savings accounts. However, mother of three Yuki Ono welcomed the plan. She said her children would benefit because they will buy new computers.
