For those suffering from tumors or from chronic and disabling diseasesthe workplace will finally be more protected. A new law, definitively approved to Senateprovides that i workers with disability equal to or greater than 74% can take advantage of a period of unpaid leave until 24 months.
This time, continuous or divided, adds to the normal 180 days of absence due to illness already planned. The goal is clear: to prevent those who face serious pathologies risks losing work after only six months of absenceas often happens today. But unfortunately for the VAT matches the situation will remain the same. In short, a small step forward but more can be done.
More flexibility: priority for agile work
Another important novelty concerns the agile. At the end of the leave, the workers will be able to access to the Smart Working as a prioritycompatibly with the type of job. A concrete measure for lighten the return and respect the health conditions of the worker. For i self -employedon the other hand, the law provides for a Suspension of services up to 300 days a yearalways to protect the right to work.
More time for care: 10 hours of paid leave per year
The hours of paid permit. The new legislation introduces 10 hours more per year to support Visits and medical examsto be added to what has already been provided for by collective agreements. This right also extends to parents of minors with serious pathologiesrecognizing the difficulties of families in the management of care. The requirements must be issued by basic doctors or specialists of the public or accredited health service.
A fund for memory and research
The law also provides for the creation, since 2026, of a Annual Fund of 2 million euros at the Ministry of University and Research. These resources will be intended to graduation prizes entitled to the memory of Oncological patientswith the aim of enhancing the link between Research, training and memory.
A step forward in rights, beyond political colors
As had already happened in 2023 with the approval of the law ononcological oblivionthis measure has passed too unanimouslyovercoming political divisions. It is a strong signal: when it comes to Health and dignityParliament manages to make a common front. A law that strengthens the protection of rights at work And it contributes to fighting financial toxicity often linked to serious diseases.
