The 2026 budget in Italy provides bonuses for mothers, extended parental leave, and support for companies that hire women, but raises questions about practical implementation.

The budget of Italy for 2026 includes significant measures aimed at supporting families with children and encouraging the employment of women. Among these are financial bonuses for mothers, the extension of parental leave, and facilities for companies that hire women with minor children. For example, companies that hire women with at least three minor children and who have been unemployed for at least six months will benefit from exemptions from social contributions, but these measures do not apply to all types of contracts. Additionally, the monthly bonus for mothers will increase from 40 to 60 euros, and parental leave will be extended for children up to 14 years old. However, companies are concerned about the complexity of implementing these measures, especially small businesses, which may face administrative difficulties. The budget also provides for an increase in the number of sick leave days for parents, from 5 to 10 days annually, and allows for the extension of temporary employee contracts to replace parents on leave.