Chungnam Provincial Council members propose new regional policy initiatives

During the 371st extraordinary session of the Chungnam Provincial Council, several members proposed key policy improvements for the region. Council member Hong Ki-hu called for the establishment of a ‘Just Transition Support Center’ to address the economic and social impacts of closing coal-fired power plants, which are heavily concentrated in Chungnam. He emphasized the need for a specialized system to manage employment transitions, worker retraining, and regional economic shifts following the passage of the Special Act on Support for Coal-Fired Power Plant Workers and Displaced Areas.

Other council members raised concerns regarding child safety and fiscal management. Member Kim Eun-na pointed out that no ‘child protection zones’ have been designated in Chungnam to prevent crimes such as kidnapping and sexual assault, urging the designation of high-risk areas like school zones and parks. Member Lee Sang-geun criticized the current method of mandatory 20% budget reductions, requesting more transparency and detailed breakdowns for budget reviews. Additionally, Member Jeong Byeong-in proposed creating a ‘Chungnam Safety Education Center’ to standardize and professionalize safety training across the province to reduce fire-related casualties.