The ordinance on supporting litigation costs for the Gwangju Seo-gu Council, proposed by Council Chair Jeon Seungil, passed the second plenary session held on the 26th.
According to the Seo-gu Council on the 28th, this ordinance aims to ensure active performance of duties by supporting litigation costs when council members or public officials are investigated or sued in connection with their official duties.
According to the ordinance, council members and public officials may apply for litigation cost support only if they are sued due to legislative activities or legitimate execution of official duties. The decision on whether to provide support is made by a review committee that includes external experts. Those who receive litigation cost support must submit a litigation result report at the end of each trial stage.
However, if the person loses a civil lawsuit due to intent or gross negligence, or is sentenced to imprisonment or a heavier punishment in a criminal case, the supported amount must be returned.
Chair Jeon stated, "There is a need to protect council members working on behalf of residents and public officials supporting legislative activities from legal disputes that inevitably arise during the course of their duties. Based on this ordinance, I expect that providing litigation cost support according to clear standards and procedures will allow council members and public officials to focus on regional development and the welfare of residents without their active public service being discouraged."
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