The Democrat Party has expressed concerns about the practicality of the conflict of interest bill, which was accepted for a first reading by the National Legislative Assembly (NLA) last week.
Known unofficially as the "four-generation bill", the proposed legislation applies to all public and political officials, those of state enterprises and public organisations; as well as people from the private sector who sit on committees in the public sector.
It also applies to their spouses or partners, as long as they are proven to have lived together, as well as their offspring; parents; spouses of children; siblings and adopted children.
If the bill becomes law, these people may not do anything that may constitute a conflict of interest in the public's view or accepts gifts, souvenirs, money, properties or any other monetary benefits, except on occasions to be defined in organic laws.
Deputy Democrat leader Kiat Sittheeamorn said he has heard complaints about the bill from business people and politicians, who say the restrictions were too broad. The legislation also targets those who are directly or indirectly linked with people suspected of committing wrongdoing, and it is not clear how the legislation can be interpreted, he said.
"The way the bill is written and its broad scope would lead to difficulty in implementing it," said Mr Kiat.
People who show potential to work for the country may fear being slapped with criminal charges, he said, adding their family members would also be worried.
They may just say serving their country is not worth it, the deputy party leader said.
However, people who intend seeking power to commit graft may not be deterred by the legislation as they may have seen loopholes.
"I demand the bill be re-written more clearly and sets out which circumstances need to be subject to public scrutiny," said Mr Kiat.
"I agree with the principle of scrutinising those holding political positions and relevant people, but links must be based on evidence, not because the law says they are too close to companies or family members," he says.
An NLA panel vetting the bill was set up yesterday.
Pol Gen Chatchawal Suksomjit was chosen as its chairman.
