Lawmakers propose stricter welfare rules for returning Hong Kong residents

Lawmakers are urging stricter rules for Hong Kong residents living abroad who return and claim welfare benefits. The government stated that defining "long-term absence" and "returnee" is complex, and any changes to welfare eligibility require careful consideration due to the varied nature of public services. Current policies for public housing and healthcare do not specifically track or restrict benefits for long-term absentees, though some services require continuous use or residency.