Italian government halves heat‑wave wage support funds, riders excluded

The Italian government approved a provision in the Infrastructure Decree allowing firms to access Cassa integrazione benefits during extreme heat events from 1 July to 31 December 2026. The budget for these social safety nets was reduced to €15.2 million, down from €33 million the previous year. €4.9 million is earmarked for general employer subsidies and €10.3 million for agricultural workers, both of which can be used without counting hours toward the maximum treatment period and without additional employer contributions.

The measure excludes several groups, notably delivery‑riders, the fishing sector, seasonal tourism workers, self‑employed persons and others not covered by the standard social‑security system. Trade unions (CISL, UIL) and opposition parties criticized the cut as insufficient and unfair, arguing that riders and other highly exposed workers remain unprotected despite facing the greatest heat‑related risks.