Letter to the editor: Leave financial decisions to parents

My husband and I opened 529 college savings accounts for our twin daughters when they were born 28 years ago. We contributed regularly and expect to do the same for our grandchildren.

I believe in helping children build financial security. What I don't believe in is the government making that decision for parents.

On Oct. 1, the U.S. Treasury announced more than 60 million additional children had been automatically enrolled in Trump Accounts. These accounts are associated with children's Social Security numbers, and parents weren't asked before they were created.

We've spent decades being told to protect our Social Security numbers, particularly those belonging to children. Why should a government investment program be exempt from that concern?

If Trump Accounts are a good idea, explain the benefits, the privacy protections and who has access to the information. Then give parents the opportunity to enroll their children.

My point is simple: Helping children build financial security shouldn't require taking the decision away from their parents.

Jeanne Hopkins

Mattapoisett