治安违法记录封存再引热议，法治进步需要共识捍卫

Core Viewpoint - The new amendment to the Public Security Administration Punishment Law, effective from January 1, 2026, introduces a sealing system for public security violation records, which has sparked discussions on its implications for certain groups, such as drug users [1][2]. Group 1: Legislative Changes - The amendment was passed by the 16th meeting of the Standing Committee of the 14th National People's Congress after two years of discussions and revisions, marking a significant update to the law [1]. - Key highlights of the amendment include the introduction of justifiable defense clauses and the establishment of a sealing system for public security violation records, which has expanded from only covering minors to all cases [1][2]. Group 2: Public Perception and Misunderstandings - There is a misconception among some individuals that the sealing system protects certain behaviors, such as drug use, which is not covered by the sealing provisions [2][3]. - The sealing of records does not equate to their destruction; records will still be accessible for legal inquiries as needed, clarifying the distinction between criminal and non-criminal behavior [2][3]. Group 3: Statistical Context - From 2019 to 2023, public security agencies handled 40.35 million cases, averaging 8.07 million cases annually, highlighting the scale of administrative penalties, which include warnings, fines, and administrative detention [3]. - The impact of even a single warning can affect an individual's social activities throughout their life, raising concerns about the proportionality of penalties in relation to the law [3].