Simplified Seasonal Employment: Pros and Cons of Upcoming Changes

“`html

New Updates for Seasonal Workers

Exciting changes are on the horizon for seasonal workers, marked by the introduction of the Flussi decree, passed in early October, and the forthcoming Labor Bill, which is now undergoing its final stages in Montecitorio.

Seasonal work is a specific type of fixed-term employment governed by law, applied during certain periods of the year and for particular activities recognized by law or national collective labor agreements (CCNL).

The Rise of Seasonal Contracts

Since 2018, regulations restricting the use of fixed-term contracts have led to a resurgence in seasonal contracts.
Despite being characterized by precariousness and instability, these contracts have become essential for meeting the dynamic needs of various sectors.

Limitations of Seasonal Contracts

The seasonal work contract allows for renewals without adhering to the restrictions that typically apply to fixed-term contracts, applicable primarily in seasonal sectors like tourism and agriculture.
However, the kinds of work eligible for this contract are strictly limited as outlined in DPR 1525 of 1963.
This list, which has not been updated for decades, still includes activities that may no longer be relevant.

Improvements in Labor Legislation

The new Labor Bill aims to clarify the specifics surrounding seasonal work, aiming to address the limitations posed by existing laws.
Besides the activities specified in the 1963 decree, the legislation would also include seasonal roles necessary to manage peak workload intensifications.

Streamlining Temporary Employment

Changes related to the temporary worker legislation positively impact seasonal jobs as well.
Notably, exceptions are introduced regarding the numerical limits on temporary contracts, particularly concerning those who are later hired permanently or for specific seasonal needs.

Updates in the Flussi Decree

The Flussi decree includes urgent measures for the entry of foreign workers into Italy, providing significant updates specifically for seasonal laborers.
Those who have entered Italy legally will not face immediate expulsion at the contract’s expiration.

Instead, they are granted a grace period of 60 days post-employment to secure a new contract with their current employer or a different one, facilitating smoother transitions between jobs.

Advantages and Disadvantages of New Regulations

The Labor Bill’s advancements allow for a more flexible application of temporary contracts tied to seasonal demand, which can be advantageous as it enables more work opportunities.
However, there is concern that this might foster job instability, allowing employers to rely on legal but precarious hiring practices.

The expansion of seasonal contract use, with potential exemptions from general renewal rules, may enable endless renewals of these precarious contracts, leaving workers without the prospect of attaining stable employment.

Social partners, notably CGIL and UIL, are opposing the Labor Bill vehemently.
On October 8, they planned a protest in Piazza della Rotonda, Rome, spotlighting their demand for dignified, stable, and secure employment, criticizing the bill for promoting further job insecurity and impoverishment in the workforce.

“`