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Public Comments on Marriage Law (Draft Amendments) Revealed
On January 11, 2001, senior legislators released draft amendments to the current Marriage Law for nationwide public comment. The decision to encourage nationwide discussion was made at a meeting of chairmen of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, China's top legislative body, according to a notice issued by the General Office of the NPC Standing Committee. People in various social circles paid close attention to the notice. Many of them wrote letters to express their support for the amendments of the current Marriage Law and gave their opinion and suggestions on the draft.
By February 28, 2001, the Legislative Affairs Committee of the NPC Standing Committee had received 3,829 letters and telegraphs on the draft amendments. Viewed from the situation of public comments, four characteristics are shown: first, a large number of letters. The number of letters arrived at the Committee exceeded any of other public comments seeking in recent years; second, a broad range of participators. People from various social strata including workers, farmers, students, professors, soldiers and public servants gave their opinion and suggestions on the amendments; third, high enthusiasm. Some persons provided their suggestion on detailed amendments; some drew another full text of the Law; some wrote several letters in succession to elaborate their opinions; some visited the Committee in Beijing for a face-to-face talk after writing letters; fourth, comprehensive opinions and suggestions. People gave their opinions on most of the revised topics. Some even provided diversified suggestions on the same topic.
The Legislative Affairs Committee of the NPC Standing Committee will collect public opinions and invite related departments and experts for further study. The opinions will be submitted to the senior legislators before the third reading. Some of the suggestions are expected to be absorbed into the newly revised draft which are to be decided by the NPC Standing Committee after concentrated discussion by the Legislative Affairs Committee according to legal procedures.
By PD Online staff member Du Minghua
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