Local governments in China will be required to regulate the cost of services in elderly care institutions, according to a draft amendment to the Law on the Protection of the Rights and Interests of the Elderly.

The draft was submitted Monday to a bimonthly session of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, which will run from Dec. 24 to 28, for the second reading.

The amendment aims to address issues among some elderly care service providers, including confusing pricing standards and the elderly not being provided with follow-up services after changing institutions or after institutions close.

"Local governments at all levels should regulate charges and standards for elderly care services with strengthened supervision and management of elderly care institutions," the draft says.

It also stipulates that related organizations are responsible for properly resettling seniors when their care providers reorganize or close.

The amendment also covers the development of community elderly care services in a bid to strengthen their roles in providing services for seniors' daily life, cultural and sports activities and daytime care for senior citizens.

"Local governments at all levels and related organizations should... encourage professional service providers and other individuals and groups to offer daily care, emergency aid, medical treatment, psychological consultations and other services for elderly people living at home," the amendment says.

The draft specifies that local governments should incorporate elderly care facilities into their urban and rural construction plans, as well as offer favorable policies in taxation, financing and other fields to encourage more people to work in the elderly care service sector.

The draft also stipulates that the government should improve support for one-child elders, legally ensuring an ongoing monthly bonus policy for elderly people with only one child.