Chongqing mulls law requiring children to have closer contact with parents

Southwest China's Chongqing municipality plans to require children to maintain closer contact with their parents and will also encourage private capital to tackle the challenges of an aging society, according to a draft law.

The municipality's regional amendment to the national law on the protection of rights and interests of senior citizens is now soliciting public opinion through email or letters before it makes further changes and the law takes effect.

It says family members shoulder the legal responsibility to take care of dependents and also need to remain in contact with the elderly through visits, phone, Internet, and letters.

Aged people, defined as above 60 years old, have the right to say no to boomerang kids, young adults who still rely on them. Those who support the elderly are also required to respect their rights and should not force them to be separated from their spouses.

Besides, at least half of public welfare funds collected from lottery ticket sales will be allocated to support the development of elderly care. The homeless will receive prioritized support in applying for affordable housing.

The draft also says the local government should encourage private capital to help provide services for the elderly through preferential policies including subsidized loans.

Chongqing had a population of 30.17 million, and over 6.5 million were above 60 years old, according to data from 2015.