Japan: Adopted Bill to Amend the Basic Act for Establishing a Digital Society

On 31 May 2024, the Bill to Amend the Basic Act for Establishing a Digital Society was adopted by the House of Councillors in Japan. The Bill aims to enhance the convenience of administrative procedures through the use of information and communication technology and to simplify and streamline administrative operations. The proposed changes include measures to ensure data quality, promote database development and data linkage by the government, strengthen the system to effectively maintain databases and systems, and introduce measures related to My Number, which will enable individuals' online identification. The Bill also proposes the creation of a 'Public Basic Information Database Development and Improvement Plan' and the addition of the Prime Minister (Digital Minister) to the list of ministers in charge of related affairs.