by InTrieste
The Friuli Venezia Giulia Regional Council opened debate Tuesday on the region’s 2026 budget adjustment, a package worth just over €1 billion financed largely through a €966 million budget surplus recorded in 2025.
During the opening session, lawmakers from both the governing coalition and the opposition presented their assessments of the measure. The center-right majority argued that the proposal reflects sound financial management and provides investments for businesses, families and the regional healthcare system.
“We respond with concrete actions,” said Diego Bernardis, a regional councilor with the Fedriga President group. “It is not enough to have resources; you also have to know how to spend them well.”
Opposition parties called for greater investment to address long-term challenges, including demographic decline, climate change, social welfare and drought resilience.
“The idea that it is either the environment or jobs is outdated,” said Giulia Massolino of Patto per l’Autonomia. “Without the environment, the economy cannot endure. This is no longer only an environmental issue, but one of health, economic stability and social security.”
With the general debate concluded, the council moved on to a detailed examination of the bill, beginning with provisions on productive activities. Lawmakers have submitted 543 amendments, including a closely watched proposal allocating nearly €200 million, one of the largest funding items in the budget adjustment, which also includes resources for agreements reached through regional consultation.
