China promulgates Passport Law

On April 29, the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress passed the Passport Law (护照法), effective Jan. 1, 2007.  Among other things, the law prescribes a limited number of reasons for which the authorities may refuse the issue a passport, and requires any refusal to be accompanied by a written statement of reasons and a notice that the applicant may request an internal administrative review (行政复议) or initiate an administrative lawsuit.