BEIJING, June 28 (TNF): China’s top legislature has approved a major update to the Law on Penalties for Administration of Public Security. The changes aim to protect minors and tackle new threats to social order. The National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee passed the revised law on Friday. The new rules will take effect on January 1, 2026. This is the first major revision since 2005. The law now has 144 articles across six chapters.
The changes respond to rising juvenile crime, especially violent acts. In 2024, prosecutors charged 57,000 juveniles. Among them were 34 younger minors accused of serious violence. The law now allows detention of juveniles aged 14 to 18 for severe first offenses. Minors aged 14 to 16 can face detention for repeated violations within a year.
Huang Haihua, spokesperson for the NPC’s Legislative Affairs Commission, said the law strikes a balance. It avoids blanket incarceration but also rejects unchecked leniency. The law combines tougher penalties with prevention and rehabilitation. Minors who escape detention because of age must still receive correctional education. Experts say petty theft and truancy often go unchecked and lead to bigger crimes. The law now requires timely action in such cases.
The update also punishes those who organize or force minors into paid companionship. It cracks down on bullying in schools. Guardians or caregivers who abuse children, the elderly, the sick, or disabled will face tougher penalties. The law targets new crimes like leading pyramid schemes, defaming national heroes, or hijacking public transport.
Chen Tianhao of Tsinghua University said these measures help authorities handle new risks. The law also seals records of minor offenses to protect young offenders. This move helps prevent repeat crimes and protects their future job and education prospects. Experts say the change promotes reintegration and social harmony.
These sweeping reforms aim to modernize China’s legal system. The goal is to ensure public safety and protect citizens in a fast-changing society.
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