Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the significant progress and transformation in local legislation in Henan Province over the past decade, highlighting the shift from having limited legislative authority to a more comprehensive and effective local governance framework that addresses various societal needs and challenges [9][10][20]. Legislative Authority Expansion - Ten years ago, only two major cities in Henan had local legislative power, but this number has increased to 17, allowing for more effective governance and addressing local issues through legislation [10][11]. - The modification of the legislative law in 2015 enabled all prefecture-level cities to gain local legislative authority, marking a critical leap in legal governance from top-level design to grassroots practice [10]. Legislative Achievements and Characteristics - Over 300 local regulations have been approved, covering areas such as urban management, ecological protection, and cultural heritage, reflecting a responsive approach to public needs [11][20]. - Local legislation has been tailored to address specific regional characteristics and challenges, resulting in unique laws that effectively solve local problems [12][13]. Focus on Public Welfare - Local governments have adopted a "small, fast, and flexible" legislative approach, addressing urgent public concerns with concise regulations that enhance community welfare [14][15]. - Examples include regulations on food safety in schools and urban sanitation, which directly respond to public demands and improve quality of life [14][20]. Collaborative Legislative Efforts - The provincial legislature has facilitated collaborative legislation among cities to address regional and watershed issues, promoting a unified approach to governance [16]. - This cooperation has helped avoid redundant laws and conflicts, leading to more effective management of shared resources [16]. Public Participation in Legislation - The article emphasizes the importance of public involvement in the legislative process, with various methods employed to gather citizen input, ensuring that laws reflect community needs [18][19]. - The establishment of numerous grassroots legislative contact points has created a network for continuous public engagement in lawmaking [19]. Impact of Legislation on Development - Effective local laws have become catalysts for economic and social development, with specific regulations leading to increased tourism and business growth in various regions [20][21]. - The article highlights successful examples where local laws have significantly improved community services and environmental conditions, demonstrating the tangible benefits of effective legislation [21].

Group 1 - The forum "CUHK LAW-Tencent Research Institute Cyberlaw Forum" aims to contribute to the interaction of values between technological innovation and good governance in the Greater Bay Area [1] - The forum will focus on topics such as global digital economy, internet public policy, and artificial intelligence governance, inviting experts from academia, industry, and public policy [1] - The event is expected to foster intellectual exchanges that can break knowledge boundaries and outline a brighter future through multidimensional discussions [1] Group 2 - Keynote speakers include Ms. Wang Yayuan, who will discuss legal responsibilities and compliance requirements related to online behavior under the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance [3] - Professor Zhang Ping will present on the thoughts and prospects of artificial intelligence legislation in China [3]

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the contributions of Mao Aidong, a prominent lawyer in Hangzhou, who plays a dual role as a legal protector for businesses and a public legal educator, emphasizing the importance of legal awareness and support for enterprises and the community [2][3][4]. Group 1: Professional Contributions - Mao Aidong has been actively involved in protecting intellectual property rights for various enterprises, particularly high-tech and foreign-invested companies, providing legal consultations to enhance their international competitiveness [3][4]. - He has conducted over 5,000 training sessions for small and medium-sized enterprises in Hangzhou over the past five years, focusing on knowledge of intellectual property laws to help businesses avoid legal risks [3][4]. Group 2: Legislative Involvement - Mao has participated in the legislative consultation for several local regulations, including the "Hangzhou Intellectual Property Protection and Promotion Regulations" and the "Hangzhou Pre-Hospital Emergency Management Regulations," contributing to the legal framework that supports the city's development [4][5]. Group 3: Community Engagement - As a mediator and public legal educator, Mao has accumulated over 1,600 hours of mediation experience, resolving more than 400 disputes, which has established him as a trusted legal representative among the citizens of Hangzhou [6][7]. - He founded a legal service team under the Democratic League in Hangzhou, providing legal advice and public legal education across various community sectors, including schools and construction sites, to address common legal issues faced by the public [6][7].

Core Viewpoint - The revised "Regulations on Ensuring Payment to Small and Medium-sized Enterprises" aims to protect the financial interests of SMEs, addressing the issue of delayed payments that hinder their sustainable development [1][2]. Group 1: Regulatory Changes - The new regulations impose stricter enforcement and larger penalties, mandating large enterprises to pay within 60 days of delivery and prohibiting clauses that limit SMEs' rights [2]. - A dedicated chapter on legal responsibilities has been added, specifying penalties for responsible corporate personnel and measures against intimidation or retaliation towards SMEs [2]. Group 2: Enforcement and Supervision - The regulations emphasize enhanced coordination among enforcement agencies, clarifying responsibilities and establishing a reporting system to strengthen administrative oversight [2][3]. - A chapter on "Supervision and Management" has been introduced to ensure regular updates and communication among government departments, enhancing the overall enforcement framework [2]. Group 3: Market Environment - The regulations aim to create a stable and transparent business environment by addressing delayed payments, which is essential for the survival of market entities [3]. - There is a call for promoting contractual spirit and further standardizing enterprise-related law enforcement to ensure equal status for all market participants [3]. Group 4: Long-term Mechanisms - The regulations advocate for a multi-departmental approach to improve payment information disclosure, complaint handling, and mechanisms for punishing dishonest practices [3]. - The focus is on establishing long-term mechanisms to prevent and clear delayed payments, ensuring SMEs experience tangible benefits and satisfaction [3].