China passes law to enhance veterans' benefits

China's top legislature passed a law on support for veterans on Wednesday, intending to comprehensively improve benefits for those who have served in the armed forces.

The 23rd session of the Standing Committee of the 13th National People's Congress reviewed the law's third draft on Tuesday and passed it on Wednesday morning.

The draft was first submitted to the 19th session of the 13th NPC Standing Committee in June by the State Council and the Central Military Commission for its first reading.

The goals of the law are to improve the handling of veterans' affairs, better safeguard their rights and interests and boost the attractiveness of military careers, according to a joint statement by the State Council and the Central Military Commission.

The law stipulates the government shall encourage and help veterans land civilian jobs or start their own businesses. It also asks the government and military to strengthen vocational training for veterans to give them better adaptability and capability in the job market.

Employers are urged to give preference to veterans in recruitment, set lower requirements for job applicants who have served in the military and arrange periodic training for any veteran they hire, according to the law.

Human resources agencies shall also provide free or discounted services to retirees.

Organizations that hire veterans can be eligible for tax benefits if they meet certain criteria. Small businesses founded by veterans can apply for loans with favorable terms.

Industry parks or business incubation programs sponsored by the government shall offer favorable terms to retirees who want to open their own businesses. Economically developed regions can set up dedicated programs to assist startups launched by veterans.

When dismissing employees, publicly funded organizations and State-owned enterprises shall retain as many jobs as possible for veterans they hire, according to the law.

In addition to employment issues, the law also clarifies the principles and work methods of authorities in charge of veterans' affairs, specifies obligations and rights of service retirees and adds more favorable measures for veterans.

War veterans shall also be given extra retirement benefits than others.