On 19 April 2017, the President of the Council of Ministers signed the decree implementing the so-called “Ape sociale”. This is an experimental measure, effective from 1 May 2017 to 31 December 2018, designed to accompany to retirement disadvantaged workers or those who are under conditions of distress. In particular, the workers who can benefit from this measure are those who (i) are at least 63 years old and (ii) have accrued 30 years of pension contributions if they are unemployed, disabled or with first degree relatives affected by severe disability or 36 years of pension contributions if they performed heavy work. This measure is under the responsibility of the State and the amount is paid by INPS (on request) up to reaching the age necessary to claim the old-age pension o meeting the requirements to access the early retirement pension. Pending publication on the Official Gazette, the text will have to undergo the review of the Council of State.
