A regulation on protecting good Samaritans was recently passed by the Standing Committee of the People's Congress in Shenzhen, Guangdong province to public acclaim, said an article in the People's Daily (excerpts below).

The significance of the regulation lies in eliminating legal obstacles to helping others. Good Samaritans, or those considering a good deed, should not have to fear being held legally responsible. And if they face legal accusations, they will get help. This should remove any legal impediment to helping others.

Whether the legislation will make an immediate difference remains to be seen.

But at least those who want to help can do so without the concerns of legal consequences hanging over their head.