The recent approval of the Reconstruction Decree by the Chamber of Deputies represents a significant step in emergency management and post-disaster reconstruction in Italy.
With 153 votes in favour, 94 against and 4 abstentions, the measure introduces urgent provisions to address the consequences of natural disasters, promote civil protection and facilitate the holding of major international events.
After the Senate’s approval on July 31, the decree also integrates the measures for the Campi Flegrei, marking an important legislative milestone.
What are the practical implications of this decree and how will it affect regions affected by disasters?
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Contributions to private individuals and acceleration of procedures
Among the most significant provisions of the decree are the contributions intended for private individuals whose homes have been damaged by calamitous events. These contributions no longer cover unregistered movable property damaged by the 2016 earthquake, but instead provide a lump sum support based on the number and type of damaged spaces.
There is a maximum limit of 3,200 euros for the kitchen and 700 euros for the other rooms, with an overall ceiling of 6,000 euros per dwelling.
Furthermore, the decree accelerates the compensation procedures for private reconstruction, allowing people to return to their homes more quickly. Specific measures aim to promote the safety of areas affected by floods, freeing up areas at high hydrogeological risk.
The Extraordinary Commissioner, with the power to carry out monthly checks, may avail himself of public bodies or state organs to monitor the effectiveness of the benefits granted, revoking those assigned without valid justifications.
The appointment and powers of the Extraordinary Commissioner are described in detail in the text, with a mandate for Emilia-Romagna, Tuscany and Marche extended until 31 December 2024.
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Infrastructure and contributions for the earthquake in Abruzzo
The decree emphasizes the importance of the FS Group’s collaboration in securing damaged infrastructure. The Extraordinary Commissioner is responsible for preparing and approving special plans for the reconstruction of damaged road infrastructure, with ANAS involved not only in the restoration but also in the prevention of road damage, even on roads outside its jurisdiction.
Specific rules concern the management of post-disaster waste materials, and a contribution is foreseen to complete the reconstruction after the earthquake in Abruzzo on 6 April 2009, excluding however illegal buildings.
The state of emergency for meteorological events in the Marche region is extended until September 17, 2025, while the Italian Meteo Agency obtains the possibility of hiring staff for an additional five years.
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Measures for the Phlegraean Fields and school interventions
The measures in favor of Campi Flegrei, hit by the bradyseism, include the appointment of an extraordinary Commissioner for the emergency and the implementation of interventions to upgrade public buildings and transport infrastructures. Facilitated procedures are foreseen for the continuity of school activities, with contributions for families whose homes have been declared uninhabitable.
The Campania Region can assign contributions between 400 and 900 euros per month, with an extra 200 euros for over 65s or disabled people with a disability greater than 67%.
Measures are also taken to prevent new construction in the area, with substitute powers granted to the Council of Ministers in the event of non-compliance.
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Resources for the G7 and the Milano Cortina 2026 Foundation
In view of the G7 summit held in Puglia, extraordinary resources of 13.95 million euros have been allocated in 2024, in addition to strengthening the presence of law enforcement. The decree also includes an interpretative provision for the Fondazione Milano Cortina 2026, specifying that the foundation is not classified as a body under public law and its activities are not subject to such provisions.
These measures represent an integrated and multi-level approach to address emergencies, support affected communities and ensure the safety of infrastructure. With its approval, the Reconstruction Decree establishes a crucial regulatory framework for disaster management in Italy.
