Kirk here. I’m not sure if this is related to the murder I wrote about last night, but, regardless, this proposed “Public Contract Ordinance” strikes me as a good idea. (I’ll link to the source in a comment.)
By the way, ChatGPT correctly translates “市独自の” as “unique” but other reports I saw indicated that there are already several cities with similar laws. The mayor cited their effectiveness in raising wage levels when proposing the ordinance.
— ChatGPT translation starts —
Kumamoto City has announced its intention to establish a unique ‘Public Contract Ordinance’ aimed at improving the working environment for laborers engaged in public works projects ordered by the city.
This was revealed at the Kumamoto City Council meeting on December 5th.
Mayor Onishi stated that an investigation into municipalities that have established a ‘Public Contract Ordinance’ showed improvements such as increased wages and reduced overtime work for workers. Consequently, the city plans to set up a committee of experts next fiscal year to discuss this matter.
The ordinance is proposed to be presented in fiscal year 2025, with an aim to implement it in fiscal year 2026.