by EH
In a significant decision, the Regional Council approved a record-breaking budget of $5.7 billion, marking the highest allocation in the region’s history. President Fedriga announced an extra $285 million for the Health sector compared to the previous year.
President Fedriga explained that this budget surpasses the December 2022 allocation by $642 million. The financial measures aim to strengthen Friuli Venezia Giulia’s socioeconomic framework and boost the region’s overall appeal.
Governor Fedriga highlighted that among the additional $285 million for healthcare, $173.6 million will go towards current expenses, $44.7 million for new investments, and $25.9 million for social initiatives. These funds aim to address challenges related to citizens’ right to health, covering access to care and comprehensive support through local services.
The Governor also emphasized the commitment to family policies, stating, “This majority has tripled annual funding for the family sector from approximately $20 million in 2017 to the current $65 million. Additionally, an extra $18 million has been allocated for two extraordinary measures starting in 2024, providing support to young couples expanding their families.”
In detail, the proposed measures include financial assistance to families upon the birth of a third child for reducing the outstanding balance of the mortgage for home purchase. Eligible recipients are families covered by the Family Card committing to maintaining residency in Friuli Venezia Giulia for three years from the grant.
This assistance also applies to the adoption of a third child, provided they are a minor. The initial amount, applicable from January 1, 2024, can reach up to $20,000 for children born on or after this date. Another measure aims to encourage the formation of new family units by entering into an agreement with credit institutions willing to grant a loan of up to $30,000 to young couples forming a new family, repayable within 5 years.
In the case of the birth of a child, the Region acknowledges an additional contribution of $15,000 deducted from the loan’s principal. Another contribution is granted upon the birth of a second child, equal to the remaining debt of the loan. The beneficiaries are young couples forming a new family with an Income and Social Situation Index (ISEE) equal to or less than $35,000, residing in the region for at least 24 consecutive months, and committing to maintain residency in Friuli Venezia Giulia for the entire loan duration. This measure also applies to adoptive children.
