Draft law targets faster, easier social assistance access

Authorities should streamline procedures for social assistance to ensure people in need can receive help more conveniently and efficiently, according to a draft law under review by Chinese lawmakers.

The draft social assistance law was submitted Monday to an ongoing session of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, China's top legislature, for a third review. In general, a draft law in China becomes law after three readings by the NPC Standing Committee.

Social assistance addresses urgent needs and difficulties. While ensuring openness and fairness, the latest draft adds that competent authorities should optimize workflows based on actual conditions to make it easier for the public to apply for and receive assistance.

In addition to the draft, several other legislative items — including a draft revision to the Law on State-owned Assets of Enterprises, a draft amendment to the Agriculture Law and a draft law on healthcare security — were also submitted for review.