On April 26, 2022, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (MHLW) released the Resolved Discussion Points in the Modality of Support for the Self-reliance of the Needy. Those points were compiled after four meetings of the Study Group organized on October 25, 2022, for this purpose.

The MHLW set up the Study Group according to Article 8 of the Supplementary Provisions of the Act for Partial Revision of the Services and Support for the Needy, etc. (Act No. 44 of 2018) to facilitate their self-reliance.  It stipulates that the implementation status of the Act must be reviewed approximately every five years after its enforcement, and necessary measures are to be based on the results of the review. In addition, the prolonged Covid-19 pandemic brought about new issues, such as changes in the perception of persons to be supported and the diversification of support needs for the needy. Therefore, a systemic response is required. Given those, the study group resolved the discussion points to pave the way for deliberation with the Council on Social Security on the modality of support for the self-reliance of the needy.

Two working groups (WG), (1) the "Project Idea WG" and (2) the "Cross-cutting Issues WG," were established in the Study Group, which held a total of 11 meetings.

The main resolved points were as follows:

The National and Local Working-Level Consultations on the public assistance system will compile their discussion. Then, the Social Security Council's Division of Support for Self-reliance for the Needy and Public Assistance will be deliberated upon based on the resolved points. Finally, if necessary, a bill will be submitted in 2023 or later.

For more information, please visit the website below (Japanese only):
https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/shingi/other-syakai_382987_00001.html