Italy implements disability employment incentives and legal reforms

Italy is implementing new measures and reforms regarding disability support and employment. A decree from the Ministry for Disabilities provides financial incentives for Third Sector organizations to hire young workers with disabilities under the age of 35 on a permanent basis. This initiative includes an immediate one-time payment of 12,000 euros, plus 1,000 euros per month until the end of 2026, supported by a total fund of 25 million euros.

Additionally, a major reform of disability protections, as outlined in Legislative Decree 62/2024, is set to take effect on January 1, 2027. This reform will restructure the application of Law 104, moving away from purely clinical assessments toward a model focused on the individual and social obstacles to autonomy. While the term “handicap” will be removed from administrative language, existing rights, tax benefits, and work permits for those with current certifications will remain fully valid without requiring new evaluations.