Provincial Assembly Member Jeon Gyeong-seon: "We Have Taken Steps to Lay the Foundation of Grassroots Democracy"

Actively Welcoming the Passage of the 'Local Autonomy Act Amendment' by the National Assembly's Public Administration and Security Committee

Jeon Gyeong-seon, Chairman of the Operations Committee of Jeollanam-do Council (Democratic Party, Mokpo 5) / ? Asia Economy

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Seo Young-seo] Jeon Gyeong-seon, Chairperson of the Operations Committee of the Jeonnam Provincial Council (Democratic Party, Mokpo 5), expressed strong support for the passage of the "Local Autonomy Act Revision Bill" through the full meeting of the National Assembly's Public Administration and Security Committee on the 3rd.

Until now, the Local Autonomy Act has been criticized for being hastily enacted by copying the National Assembly Act when local autonomy was reinstated in 1988. Because of this, it has been pointed out that there has been a 32-year gap, disconnected from the current realities of decentralization and local autonomy.

The revision bill passed by the full meeting of the Public Administration and Security Committee includes provisions granting city and provincial council chairpersons personnel authority over administrative staff, and explicitly states that matters related to appointment, education, training, and discipline should be handled according to laws and regulations, thereby further strengthening the independence and authority of local councils.

Chairperson Jeon Gyeong-seon stated, "In a situation where the metropolitan area black hole phenomenon is intensifying, the 'Local Autonomy Act Revision Bill' must be passed during this year's regular session of the National Assembly to promote decentralization and balanced development," adding, "Although somewhat delayed compared to the persistent demands since the Moon Jae-in administration began, it is very encouraging that the bill has passed the standing committee this time."

He also said, "It is somewhat regrettable that the introduction of professional policy support personnel for local councils will be implemented gradually by 2023 within half the number of council members," but added, "It is very welcome as it marks the first step in laying the foundation for grassroots democracy."

Meanwhile, the National Assembly plans to process the "Local Autonomy Act Revision Bill" within the year after going through the Legislation and Judiciary Committee and the plenary session.

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