MOSCOW, December 21 - RAPSI. The State Duma has adopted in its third reading a law postponing until January 1, 2014 the introduction of compulsory labor as a new form of punishment.

It was earlier expected that the new punishment would take effect as of 2013.

On November 21, the Duma approved a law introducing compulsory community service for two months to five years.

The punishment will be imposed as an alternative to imprisonment for minor and graver crimes, and for a number of heinous crimes committed for the first time. The provision will allow the court to impose further punishments not connected with imprisonment.

According to lawmakers, the federal law "On Compulsory Works" could not be implemented as of January 1, 2013 due to a lack of employees and insufficient budget funds.

The document extends until January 1, 2014 the bailiffs' right to send to the police foreigners and non-citizens who are subject to deportation. These powers will be valid until the beginning of 2014.

The law will come into effect from its official publication.