The debate regarding the Essential Levels of Performance (Lep) intensifies after the latest ruling of the Constitutional Court on Differentiated Autonomy. The committee responsible for defining these standards, established by a decree of the President of the Council, is scheduled to cease its functions on December 31, 2024. This was revealed by Professor Sabino Cassese, president of the committee, underlining the importance of an in-depth reflection on this issue.
Criticisms of the Calderoli Law
Michele Emiliano, president of the Puglia region, has expressed strong criticism of the law proposed by Minister Calderoli. During a press conference in Bari, Emiliano said that the minister should acknowledge the constitutional errors in his legislation and apologize. According to Emiliano, it is essential that Calderoli take a break to carefully examine the Constitution before engaging in further discussions in Parliament.
Emiliano emphasized that the observations made in the letter of resignation from the committee by some former members are aligned with the reasons that led the Court to declare many key provisions of the law illegitimate.
A Call for Reflection
Franco Bassanini, former minister and one of the resigning members of the Lep committee, confirmed that his concerns had already been expressed in previous discussions with Minister Calderoli. According to Bassanini, if the minister had listened to their suggestions, this critical situation could have been avoided.
The need to completely overhaul the law emerges as a central theme in the current debate. The former minister stressed the importance of undertaking a more careful and thoughtful legislative process to ensure the legitimacy of future provisions.
A Look to the Future
As the Lep Committee approaches its deadline, the situation remains uncertain. Criticisms from regional leaders and former members of the committee raise questions about the future direction of essential services policies in Italy. The need for constructive dialogue appears more urgent than ever as the country prepares to rethink and rebuild its legislative foundations to ensure fairer and more constitutional governance.