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The draft amendment to the Prison Law was submitted on Monday to the Standing Committee of the 14th National People's Congress for a second review. The revised draft introduces provisions on the enforcement and administration of sentences for foreign nationals, according to a China News report.

The draft specifies that prisons must protect the lawful rights and interests of foreign inmates and ensure fair treatment during sentence enforcement. Matters concerning visits will follow relevant state regulations, and the transfer of prisoners will be conducted in line with the law on international criminal judicial assistance and other applicable laws, the report said.

The draft also refines rules governing the conduct of prison police, adding provisions on misuse of police equipment and weapons, and the leaking of work-related information. It also specifies that accountability for failing to perform duties in accordance with the law must take into account the facts, nature, consequences, and subjective fault, and be handled in accordance with the law.

The draft introduces pre-release education for inmates, requiring prisons to provide instruction before inmates completes a sentence or is granted parole. The goal is to consolidate rehabilitation outcomes, help inmates adapt to life after release, and support smooth reintegration into society.
The draft also stipulates the sealing of criminal records of juvenile offenders.

In April, the Standing Committee of the 14th National People's Congress held the first review of the draft amendment to the Prison Law. China's current Prison Law was enacted in 1994. The draft revision, taking into account the new challenges and demands of prison work in the new era, proposes to further ensure prison security, better protect the legitimate rights and interests of criminals, and reinforce their education and reform, according to the Xinhua News Agency. 

Global Times