Italy's Parliament is preparing to make significant changes to its economic policy, focusing on tax adjustments and public spending.
One notable change is the allocation of three billion euros for the construction of the Messina Strait Bridge, which has received both support and criticism.
Another proposed change is a six-month period of silent consent for the transfer of severance pay to supplementary pension plans, reflecting a shift in how employee benefits are managed.
The government is also considering reducing the second Irpef tax rate and expanding the income bracket to 60,000 euros, aiming to alleviate the tax burden on middle-class citizens.
These proposed changes are part of a broader legislative maneuver, with approximately 250 amendments flagged for discussion in the House.
The Ministry of Economy and Finance (Mef) is closely monitoring these proposals to ensure they meet necessary financial coverage requirements.
However, tensions within the ruling coalition have emerged, particularly regarding the additional Irpef cut, which remains a point of contention among coalition partners.
The ruling coalition, consisting of various political factions, is navigating a complex landscape of competing interests.
Forza Italia is advocating for an immediate reduction in the second Irpef tax rate, suggesting that funds from a two-year concordat could be used for this purpose.
Fratelli d'Italia (FdI) also supports further cuts to the Irpef tax, but the executive has indicated that such measures may be postponed until after the budget law is finalized.
The League is taking a more cautious approach, delaying decisions on Irpef until a clearer picture of available resources emerges.
The party is also focused on extending the flat tax and raising the income threshold.
In addition to tax reforms, the government is exploring public spending initiatives to support families and children.
A proposed "family dote" would provide a yearly contribution of 500 euros for extracurricular activities for children under 14.
The government is also considering a change regarding severance pay, with FdI pushing for a new six-month period of silence-consent to allow employees to transfer their severance pay to supplementary pension plans.
The League supports this change, indicating a unified front within the coalition.
However, the implications of such a change on employee benefits and corporate responsibilities are still being assessed.
Another area of focus is the proposed introduction of Mef auditors in companies receiving public contributions.
This measure has sparked debate, with critics labeling it as a return to "Soviet statism."
The majority coalition appears to share this sentiment, with various proposals on the table to revise or abolish the auditors altogether.
The allocation of three billion euros for the Messina Strait Bridge has sparked political controversy, with opposition parties accusing the government of neglecting the needs of the South.
Critics argue that it diverts resources from other regional needs.
The coming weeks will be critical as Parliament debates these proposals, with potential implications for the economy and the political landscape in Italy.