In Depth: How China’s Revision of Supervision Law Would Expand Legislative Oversight Powers

China is expanding lawmakers’ supervisory powers over local authorities as the country’s top legislative body has initiated the first revision to the country’s Supervision Law.

Specifically, the central government proposed increasing the capacity and rigor of national and local people’s congress standing committees (PCSC) in reviewing local regulations. Legal scholars said the move is aimed at keeping improper local policies from unduly restricting civil rights and freedoms.