Sicily approves fuel subsidies and regional budget measures

The Sicilian Regional Assembly (ARS) has approved several key measures aimed at supporting the regional economy and managing the budget. A major highlight is the approval of decrees to distribute 15 million euros in subsidies to the agriculture and fishing sectors to combat rising fuel costs. Of this, 5 million euros is earmarked for professional fishing enterprises, while 10 million euros is designated for agricultural companies and contractors.

In addition to fuel aid, the ARS Budget Commission has approved measures for the reclamation consortia (Consorzi di Bonifica), including funding for seniority pay increases for permanent staff and an increase in working days for 2026 to enhance rural territory maintenance. Other approved amendments include 5 million euros for greenhouse companies to manage organic waste sustainably and an increase in the Local Autonomy Fund for municipalities to 365 million euros.

Legislative developments also include an amendment to penalize deputies who change political parties during their term by stripping them of committee and presidency roles. Meanwhile, controversy has arisen regarding the fuel subsidies, with the CNA Fita association claiming the current implementation process discriminates against small transport operators in favor of large fleets.