The Lower House Steering Committee on Thursday approved a one-time bill to permit the abdication of Emperor Akihito due to advanced age.
With all major parties supporting the concept of the legislation, the bill is likely to sail through the Lower House on Friday and immediately proceed to the Upper House, where it is expected to become law next week.
The 1947 Imperial House Law allows a successor to ascend the Chrysanthemum Throne only after an emperor dies. If Emperor Akihito abdicates, he will become the first in about 200 years to step down.