Taiwan's government has blocked a child welfare law passed by the opposition-controlled legislature, deepening a constitutional standoff between the executive and lawmakers.

• The Cabinet refused to countersign the child growth and future accounts law, so it cannot take effect despite passing the legislature in late July.
• President Lai Ching-te said the law breaks the separation of powers and intrudes on executive authority; Premier Cho Jung-tai added his own objection.
• The KMT called it proof the government refuses to accept the opposition majority and treats the legislature as irrelevant.
• The TPP said the proper move under the constitution is to send the bill back for reconsideration, not simply refuse to act on it.
• Opposition parties note this is at least the fifth law blocked this way, after bills on fiscal allocation, legislative organization, broadcasting, and party assets.

Outlook: The fight is likely to escalate into further constitutional challenges, with no sign either side will back down before the next round of bills.