And to update on the temporary RP for Chinese nationals, we went to pick up my wife's RP today, but were told that the new RPs are still not available.

Can you legally work on this visa?

This topic is about residence permit (not visa), and specifically residence permit for someone who is married to Chinese spouse.

You are not allowed to work on this type of RP. Or rather, you are not allowed to be employed in (or to derive employment related income from) mainland China.

@JanJal

Thanks. Thought so. "Visa" mention was a slip. RP, yes.