Russia eases restrictions on rights groups, NGOs

MOSCOW (AP) - The Kremlin says President Dmitry Medvedev has signed legislation easing restrictions on human rights groups and other non-governmental organizations.

The legislation is one of the few palpable signs of change in the Kremlin's treatment of independent organizations since Medvedev succeeded Vladimir Putin as president last year.

It amends a restrictive law passed three years ago under Putin, who had cast some NGOs as foreign-funded enemies of Russia. Putin is now prime minister.

Rights groups welcomed the legislation but say the Kremlin could have gone further with it.

Medvedev had initiated the amendments and the bill sailed through the loyal Parliament. His signature, announced Monday, was a formality.