The Chamber of Deputies gives the green light to the bill for the promotion of mountain areas: from requirements to concessions, all the novelties

The Ddl on mountain areas, with provisions for the protection, development and valorisation of mountain areas as well as delegation to the government for the introduction of remuneration systems for environmental ecosystem services, has passed the Chamber of Deputies. The decree represents an organic attempt to relaunch Italy's mountain areas. The measure introduces a new regulatory framework that, starting from a more precise definition of mountain municipalities, aims at better coordinating existing facilities and introducing new instruments to encourage resettlement, productive activity and the protection of the territory.

The criterion for identifying mountain municipalities is redefined, with annual updating based on Istat data (by 30 September, effective from the following January). It is established that in the event of a merger or demerger, the new entity will maintain - or lose - the 'mountain' status only if it meets the technical requirements. A decree will define, within 90 days of its entry into force, the geomorphologic and socio-economic criteria for selecting the municipalities to receive support measures. The experts who will make up the technical commission will not receive compensation or indemnities, in order not to burden the public finance.

The amendment introduces various tax and social security benefits such as: mortgage interest deduction, aimed at young people under 40 for the purchase of their first home in mountain municipalities of less than 2,000 inhabitants (excluding luxury properties); 100 per cent deduction on interest up to €500, then 80 per cent up to €1,125. For those who move: income from work (employee, self-employed, business) is taxed at 15% up to 28,000€, and 20% up to 55,000€. The only c conditions must be: non-resident for the previous five years and commitment to stay for five years, or having a job in the municipality or province. In addition, you will be able to enjoy a municipal Irpef surtax reduced by up to 75 per cent. Finally, a 50 per cent reduction for second homes in mountain municipalities and reduced taxes on abandoned properties. Registration, mortgage and cadastral taxes fixed at €200 each for those who purchase abandoned properties in mountain municipalities of less than 5,000 inhabitants, intended for residence or productive activities.

The fund co-finances regional measures for new residents, family sustainability, childcare, tariff reductions on utilities, and territorial agri-food promotion.