[Column] Bills Withdrawn One After Another... Lawmakers Playing It Safe

San E Finds It Difficult to Sign Sensitive Bills Like Abortion and Telemedicine
Only Non-Controversial Bills Flooded Due to Election Concerns

[Asia Economy Reporter Koo Chae-eun] "Getting approval stamps is so difficult. The lawmakers have become timid."

A recent meeting with an aide from a Democratic Party of Korea lawmaker's office revealed the difficulties faced during the bill proposal process. Although they had a sense of duty and tried to push reform bills, they encountered obstacles as fellow lawmakers were reluctant to co-sponsor. It was not easy to find lawmakers to sign on, and even when found, it was common for them to suddenly ask to have their names removed. The aide said, "As the general election approaches, lawmakers are starting to protect themselves."

Such cases have become frequent. The ‘Partial Amendment to the Act on Gender Equality in Employment and Support for Work-Family Balance’ (pet care leave), proposed by Democratic Party lawmaker Lee Yong-seon, was withdrawn due to negative public opinion and requests from co-sponsors. The ‘Medical Service Act Amendment’ proposed by fellow party member Jeon Yong-gi also fell through because lawmakers found co-sponsorship burdensome. Earlier, Democratic Party lawmaker Kim Doo-kwan submitted a ‘Bank Act Amendment’ (regarding the relocation of the Korea Development Bank) in early April, but after some co-sponsors expressed their intention to withdraw, he reintroduced it two months later.

The problem is especially acute when a lawmaker’s name is added as a co-sponsor on bills involving highly contentious interests. Large groups with strong mobilization power, which could translate into votes, make fierce protest calls. Lawmakers’ offices, under pressure, give up putting their names on bills fearing electoral disadvantages. A first-term Democratic Party lawmaker said, "There are bills proposed with a strong will to see them enacted, but there are also bills pushed mainly to raise issues, even though they know they won’t pass. It’s true that self-preservation has increased recently."

Imagine a legislature that does nothing against powerful organizations or groups that can bring many votes. The legislative branch remains silent on bills or statements that might cause a loss of votes out of fear. Only moderate, non-controversial bills are overproduced. Reform becomes distant, and the party’s identity fades. It becomes a ‘non-working legislature’ driven only by the will to maintain power for the next election.

What meaning does a National Assembly that only floods with non-controversial bills have? Voters are watching with eagle eyes. Lawmakers need to reconsider who they are working for.