BEIJING, Oct. 28 -- China's top legislature is considering a law amendment to encourage research and development of technology to stop minors from becoming Internet addicts.

The draft amendment of the law on the protection of minors would encourage development of such technology as software that can terminate online gaming at a fixed time.

The Standing Committee of the National People's Congress is reviewing it during its second deliberation of the amendment.

The draft amendment also bans commercial dance halls, bars and Internet cafes from admitting minors.

The move comes amid rising concerns that young people increasingly getting hooked by the Internet.

Government estimates claim China has about 15.4 million youths among its 123 million Internet users. Two million of them are Internet addicts, and the number is increasing rapidly.

The draft legislation would also prohibit production and sale of books, newspapers, audio-video products, computer games and cartoons with pornographic, violent, disturbing contents or gambling information to minors.

Shops or individuals caught selling tobacco and wine to minors would face administrative punishments such as fines.

Some articles deleted at the last deliberation two months ago were restored. One restored clause: "Parents and other guardians must not allow or force minors to get married, or make a marriage contract for them."

It also forbids abduction, trafficking, abuse and sexual offenses involving minors.

The draft also says teachers who insult or physically punish their students would be fired or given other penalty. Schools would be told students' work should not interfere with adequate sleep and sports activities.