Sardinia, the government challenges the regional law on study income
The law provides for grants to young people up to the age of 30 (domiciled or resident in Sardinia) who want to return to school and are in a disadvantaged economic situation
The objective is to offer a second chance to those who have left the books early. However, the measure, called Reddito di studio (Study Income), established in Sardinia by a regional law, has been challenged by the Council of Ministers because it would exceed the statutory competences by contrasting with State legislation.
Contributions to young people up to the age of 30
The law provides for grants to young people up to the age of 30 (domiciled or resident in Sardinia) who want to return to school and are in an economically disadvantaged position. The necessary condition to benefit from the measure is that they do not benefit from other scholarships. The programme finances both study for those who want to obtain a secondary school diploma and a diploma or degree.
From secondary school to university
Three million euros have already been allocated for the first two years. The measure envisages a monthly contribution of 475 euro for those taking the secondary school leaving certificate, 625 euro for those attending high school, and 775 euro monthly for university.
After the Cdm's decision, reactions come from the Region. "We are surprised by the umpteenth challenge by the national government of a law approved by the Regional Council of Sardinia for remarks of an exclusively technical nature,' says Luca Pizzuto, first signatory of the law on the Study Income. 'These are remarks that will be addressed with a sense of responsibility and institutional spirit, and we will make all the necessary corrections so that the measure can continue its course.
"Law still in force"
For the time being, according to Pizzuto, nothing should change. "The law remains in force even if it is challenged," he concludes, "We will work on the changes as soon as possible so that the law can enter fully into force as soon as possible, keeping the political and social objectives of the measure intact. Also because, the first signatory of the measure concludes, "the Study Income represents a measure of equity and social justice designed to combat school drop-outs, reduce economic inequalities and guarantee all young people the possibility of continuing their education regardless of their starting conditions".
