The Italian budget bill reaches Parliament:healthcare in the spotlight

The Italian budget bill reaches Parliament with a clash over healthcare. Meloni defends the increase in funding, while Schlein and Conte criticize the drop relative to GDP. Meanwhile, Giorgetti stands by the government's economic choices and control of the spread.

The Italian budget bill reaches Parliament:healthcare in the spotlight

On Monday, the Italian government’s budget bill will arrive in Parliament, sparking intense debate over potential amendments, with healthcare at the center of the controversy. Although not yet formally under discussion, the battle between the majority and opposition has already begun. Speaking from Brussels on Thursday, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned "misrepresentations" about healthcare funding, highlighting a historic increase in the National Health Fund, expected to reach €136.48 billion in 2025 and €140.6 billion in 2026. However, Democratic Party leader Elly Schlein countered, arguing that the real assessment should focus on the percentage of GDP, which has fallen by half a point since 2010, calling it "the lowest in the last 15 years." Giuseppe Conte also criticized Meloni, pointing out that this so-called "record" doesn't help the 4.5 million Italians who cannot afford medical care. Nino Cartabellotta, president of the Gimbe Foundation, added that Meloni should avoid using the term "record" in this context, referencing the Draft Budgetary Plan (DBP), which allocates only €860 million more for 2025.

Budget and spread in Italy: Giorgetti defends the choices

Meanwhile, in the Senate, Italian Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti defended the budget during question time, arguing that, despite the criticisms, it does not penalize the most vulnerable citizens. Regarding the contribution requested from banks and insurance companies, Giorgetti said the budget is on the right track, citing the stability of the spread. These remarks come as credit rating agencies S&P Global Ratings and Fitch prepare to assess Italy’s rating after markets close. Antonio Patuelli, president of the Italian Banking Association (ABI), also described the contribution requested from banks as a "bearable sacrifice," while acknowledging that deferring tax credits represents a significant concession.