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Swiss Voters Approve E-ID and Home Ownership Tax Reform

Swiss voters embrace digital identity and tax reform. Higher-than-expected turnout shows strong support for changes.

In this picture we can see a close view of the identity card. In the front we can see american flag...
In this picture we can see a close view of the identity card. In the front we can see american flag and "Critical Licence" written.

Swiss Voters Approve E-ID and Home Ownership Tax Reform

Swiss citizens have voted in two significant referendums, approving the introduction of an electronic proof of identity (e-ID) and the reform of home ownership taxes.

The e-ID bill, which faced opposition due to privacy concerns, was supported by both chambers of parliament. A referendum was triggered by a group of opponents, mainly a coalition of outsiders with little funding, who collected over 50,000 signatures. The referendum succeeded in mobilizing conservative and rural voters who distrusted the new digital identity system. Despite initial polls predicting a close result, 50.4% of voters backed the e-ID, with a clear mobilization in the German-speaking part of Switzerland.

The reform of home ownership taxes, aiming to abolish a tax on property that homeowners live in, was also approved by a higher majority than predicted. With cantons being compensated by an optional new tax on second homes, 57.7% of voters approved the reform. The abolition of the rental tax for homeowners was also supported by Swiss citizens. Turnout is projected to be 50%, which is higher than expected.

The Swiss people have spoken, approving the introduction of an e-ID and the reform of home ownership taxes. The results show a linguistic divide, with a clear mobilization in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. The higher-than-expected turnout and majority for the home ownership tax reform indicate a strong support for the changes.

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