Government and Policy

China solicits opinion to help drug addicts

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2010-06-25 17:05

BEIJING - A draft regulation on rehabilitation to help drug addicts beat their habit and better protect their rights was made public Friday to solicit opinions.

The draft makes provisions on voluntary drug rehabilitation, compulsory drug rehabilitation and community rehabilitation programs, which is posted on the website of the State Council's Legislative Affairs Office, www.chinalaw.gov.cn.

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It stated that drug addicts undergoing rehabilitation treatment should not be discriminated against in terms of education and employment opportunities as well as social security benefits.

Drug addicts may go to qualified rehab centers by themselves and by doing so they will not face punishment, according to the draft, in a bid to encourage drug addicts to seek rehab treatment.

The draft states that drug addicts should sign contracts with rehab centers to detail methods and schedules, confidentiality agreements and conditions to terminate treatment, among other things.

Compulsory rehab centers must be equipped with appropriate facilities and provide physical and psychological rehab treatment as well as educational programs in line with the law, according to the draft.

The draft also outlines detailed provisions on community rehabilitation programs, stressing that community workers should offer wide ranging assistance including education, training and medical services.

The public may put forward their opinions via online postings, emails or letters until July 9.